MALACHITE. Copper Queen Mine (Halero Mine), Queen Hill, Bisbee, Warren District, Mule Mountains, Cochise Co., Arizona, USA...

Description

MALACHITE
Copper Queen Mine (Halero Mine), Queen Hill, Bisbee, Warren District, Mule Mountains, Cochise Co., Arizona, USA

The Copper camp of Bisbee, Arizona has yielded some wondrous things since its' founding in 1880. The Copper minerals found in Bisbee are justly famous and highly sought after, particularly now that the mines are closed and the only material available comes from collections such as the one assembled by Ben Williams: brother-in-law to Bisbee namesake - D.W. Bisbee.
Mr. Williams acquired this specimen about the same time that it was mined in 1885: very early in the history of the mine and camp. It is a classic Bisbee piece showing flowing, sinuous forms interspersed with botryoidal forms with green velvet surfaces. Virtually the entire specimen is composed of Malachite with only minor traces of the dark, host gossan. Condition is excellent, especially when considering its age. It comes with Mr. Williams funeral program dated "Easter Sunday, 1928." In addition it bears a label and accession number (23G) from the Ed David Collection. This is a piece of the history of the real west. Comes complete with a custom base.
Overall measurements: 8 x 6 x 4 inches (20.3 x 15.2 x 10.2 cm).

Provenance: Western Minerals, ex. Ed David Collection, ex. Ben Williams Collection [Hoppel # D2218]

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