PYROMORPHITE. Daoping (Tangping Mine) Lead-Zinc Mine, Gongcheng Co., Guilin Pref., Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China...

Description

PYROMORPHITE
Daoping (Tangping Mine) Lead-Zinc Mine, Gongcheng Co., Guilin Pref., Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China

Pyromorphite seems to always be one of the top 20 on collectors want lists and the reason for that is its bright coloration and attractive form. It is found literally all over the globe with the possible exception of Antarctica and Greenland. It might also be because it has been one of the major ores of Lead, with a long history of production, particularly in Europe. The last twenty years or so have seen the emergence of world-class specimens from the Lead-Zinc mines of China, specimens the equal of any from Europe or North America. Quality and value are subject to the same criteria used to judge other occurrences: color, luster, condition, crystal size and form, etc. etc.

Applying these criteria to this specimen we find: a.) Color is the bright green that collectors value most highly, b.) Luster is bright and glassy on prism faces, c.) Condition is pristine with only two minor breaks to a couple of side crystals, d.) Crystal size is medium for material from this locality, but overall size of the specimen is in the top 95+ percentile, and finally e.) Crystal form is the classic hexagonal "barrels" type with some crystals showing hollow "hopper" type terminations. All factors considered, the specimen is a top level one - just on size of specimen and condition, there are few specimens on a par with this one and the potential for much more of this material leaving China is not good.
Overall measurements: 8 x 4 x 2 inches (20.3 x 10.2 x 5.1 cm). Offered at no reserve.

Provenance: Leonard Himes [Hoppel Catalog # D2159]


[Scale: 1 inch, with mark at 1 cm]

*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.