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Description

Variscite, Crandallite & Wardite End Cut
Little Green Monster Variscite Mine, Clay Canyon
Fairfield, Sunshine Mining District, Utah County
Utah, USA

Little Green Monster Variscite Mine is the TYPE locality for Variscite specimens. This enormous, organic-shaped end cut was collected from the famed Utah mine by legendary collector and miner Arthur Montgomery in the 1930s. The cabinet-sized, museum-quality cut nodule exhibits a highly polished display face with an intricate zonal patterning featuring the choice combination and complete coverage of the prized phosphate minerals, with deep natural cavities adding even more depth and contrast to this fascinating specimen. Bright bluish-green and yellowish-green Variscite cover roughly 90% of the polished face with stark linear yellow veins of Crandallite and grayish-blue veins of Wardite bisecting the Variscite dramatically. The main display face measures a staggering 15.4 inches (39 cm) across and is over 5 inches (13 cm) thick, and weighs an astounding 32 pounds (14.5 kilograms). The reverse has been left unpolished, giving insight into how these nodules are found in situ. The locality is exhausted, and, in fact, all material seen on the market is the result of 'liberation' from old collections, just like this example. Collection number "315" is seen on the backside, and some stabilization is evident on the reverse matrix, which is common for the material. This IS old material from THE top locality found by THE guy. Examples of this size are rarely ever seen, making this a top example in excellent condition with superb polish.
Measurements: 15.35 x 10.31 x 5.11 inches (39.00 x 26.20 x 13.00 cm), weighs 14.5 kilograms (32 pounds)

Provenance: Ex. Private Collection




Condition Report*: Condition report available upon request.
*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
August, 2024
28th Wednesday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 32
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 879

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% on the first $1,000,000 (minimum $49), plus 20% of any amount between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000, plus 15% of any amount over $5,000,000 per lot.

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Sold on Aug 28, 2024 for: $11,250.00
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