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Description

Rhodochrosite
Sweet Home Mine, Detroit City Claim Block, Mount Bross
Alma Mining District, Park County
Colorado, USA

Recovered in 2004, just weeks before the permanent closure of the Sweet Home Mine, this fine specimen represents the final generation of material from one of the world's most celebrated sources of Rhodochrosite. The specimen features numerous gemmy to translucent cherry-red rhombohedral crystals-the color and form for which Sweet Home material is prized-measuring up to 2 cm on edge. The crystals display moderate luster with frosted faces and are attractively arranged across a matrix dusted with sulfide minerals and slender Quartz needles, creating appealing contrast and depth. Designated as the State Mineral of Colorado, Rhodochrosite from this locality is renowned for its combination of vibrant hue, crystal perfection, and historical importance. A desirable and well-balanced Sweet Home Mine specimen, marking the close of a legendary era in American mineralogy.
Measurements: 4.13 x 2.76 x 1.34 inches (10.50 x 7.00 x 3.40 cm)

Provenance: Property of a Distinguished Southern California Collector, Ex. Gerard L. Cafesjian Collection: Ex. I.M. Chait Gallery, Beverly Hills, California


More Information: All items are offered "as is." While every effort has been made to accurately describe each lot, certain pieces—particularly fossils, minerals, and carvings—may exhibit minor imperfections, repairs, restorations, or natural wear consistent with age, excavation, or handling. Prospective buyers are encouraged to carefully review photographs and descriptions and to request additional condition information prior to bidding.


Estimate: $4,000 - up.

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

Proxy Bidding Ends 
December
2nd Tuesday 3:50 pm CT
Auction Dates
December
2nd Tuesday
Proxy Bidding Time Remaining 
16 Days 20h 34m 18s
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 0
Lot Tracking Activity: 16
Page Views: 118

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% of the successful bid (minimum $49) per lot.

This lot is in: 2 - Signature® Internet Session - No Floor or Phone Bidding (Mail, Fax, Internet, and Heritage Live):
(Lots 72188-72346) - 4:00 PM Central Time, Tuesday, December 2, 2025.
[Proxy bidding ends ten minutes prior to the session start time. Live Proxy bidding on Heritage Live now starts within 2 hours of when the auction opens for proxy bidding and continues through the live session.]

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Additional Location Info:
Heritage Auctions
2801 W. Airport Freeway
Dallas, TX 75261

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** Lots bearing estimates and without Consignor Reserve shall open at Heritage Auctions' discretion (usually 25% to 60% of the low estimate).

Starting Bid:
$2,000
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