RHODOCHROSITE. ...

Description

RHODOCHROSITE
N'Chwaning Mine, North Cape Province, South Africa
The discovery of amazingly fine Rhodochrosite crystals in South Africa some thirty years ago "rocked" the mineral collecting world. After the initial production, expectations were high for a continuing supply of these reddish gems. That didn't happen. The production from that short period was very limited in spite of enormous demand. Today, demand for these unique specimens is stronger than ever; ranking with Kongsberg Silvers and Red Cloud Wulfenites in desirability. This example is composed of transparent dark red 'gumdrops' of Rhodochrosite resting on a characteristic druzy, deep black Manganese Oxide matrix. The main crystal group is 1 ¼ inches across. There is some minor "contact" to the back side of the main group and minor cleavage "dings" to secondary group, otherwise fine. Accompanied by a custom labeled acrylic base, overall specimen measurements are 2 ¾ x 1 ½ x 1 ¼ inches.

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