Hematite. Dom Bosco Mine, Dom Bosco (old Hargreaves). Ouro Preto, Iron Quadrangle, Minas Gerais. Brazil. ...

Description

Hematite
Dom Bosco Mine, Dom Bosco (old Hargreaves)
Ouro Preto, Iron Quadrangle, Minas Gerais
Brazil

"Eisenrosen" is the specific collectors name for this type of crystal aggregate. The term is German for "Iron Rose" and considering that it is composed of almost pure Iron Oxide, that probably as good a term as any. Eisenrosen are aggregates of bladed Hematite crystals arranged in multiple, sub-parallel groups around a central point. This is almost a textbook example. The sides of the individual blades are mirror bright and almost metallic in luster. Edges conversely are matte in luster and in some areas possessing a faint reddish cast. Among the many crystals are several approximately 2 inches (5 cm) across. There are a number of bruised areas, probably the result of inadvertent actions by miners before the specimen was rescued. The bottom of the piece is liberally sprinkled with small, tan to yellow Muscovite crystal and hiding amongst the Muscovite are three or more twinned Rutile crystals of deep red color. In addition, the bottom bears an accession number "31AL" but there is no corresponding label or documentation. This is an extremely large example of an Iron Rose and, that alone makes it worthy of notice.
Measurements: 5.0 x 4.0 x 1.5 inches (12.7 x 10.2 x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: Keith Proctor, Ex. Roberts Minerals [Hoppel #D1691]

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