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Home / Art & Antiques / 2019 August 26 Rock H. Currier Collection of Fine Minerals Signature Auction - Dallas Auction #5445 / Lot #72076
    LOT #72076  | 
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    Benitoite, Neptunite & Joaquinite-(Ce). Dallas Gem Mine, Santa Rita Peak, New Idria District, Diablo Range, San Benito Co....

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    • Minerals:Thumbnail, Benitoite, Neptunite & Joaquinite-(Ce). Dallas Gem Mine, Santa Rita Peak, New Idria District, Diablo Range, San Benito Co....
    • Minerals:Thumbnail, Benitoite, Neptunite & Joaquinite-(Ce). Dallas Gem Mine, Santa Rita Peak, New Idria District, Diablo Range, San Benito Co....
    Minerals:Thumbnail, Benitoite, Neptunite & Joaquinite-(Ce). Dallas Gem Mine, Santa Rita Peak, New Idria District, Diablo Range, San Benito Co.... Minerals:Thumbnail, Benitoite, Neptunite & Joaquinite-(Ce). Dallas Gem Mine, Santa Rita Peak, New Idria District, Diablo Range, San Benito Co.... View More >
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    Description

    Benitoite, Neptunite & Joaquinite-(Ce)
    Dallas Gem Mine, Santa Rita Peak, New Idria District, Diablo Range, San Benito Co., California, USA

    "A couple of sharp triangular blue benitoite crystals up to about 12 mm growing on a little white natrolite associated with a somewhat smaller prismatic black neptunite crystal. Got the specimen from Jim Minette when he sold Willard Perkins personal thumbnail collection. The little labels in the front of the specimens are distinctive of his mounts."
    - Rock H. Currier

    Maybe the Gods saw Benitoite getting designated "California's State Gemstone" as an act of hubris. Maybe it was just bad timing. Whatever the reason, the locality is pretty much shot as a prospective source for more Benitoite. As Benitoites go, this is a "purdy lil' thang" that can proudly hold its own against many specimens that are far larger. Classic combo of: white Natrolite, blue Benitoite and reddish black Neptunite with sprinkles of Joaquinite. The fact that this thumbnail specimen is from Willard Perkins' personal collection is icing on the cake - and a piece of mineralogical history.
    Overall Measurements: 0.8 x 0.7 x 0.6 inches (2.0 x 1.8 x 1.5 cm)
    Offered at no reserve

    Provenance: Bought from Jim Minette, Ex. Willard Perkins Collection [RHC #6774, acquired 1999]

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

    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

    Auction Dates
    August, 2019
    26th Monday
    Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 14
    Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
    Page Views: 2,636

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