Native Gold. Placer Co., CA, USA. ...

Description

Native Gold
Placer Co., CA, USA

"A cluster of gold crystals with a few specks of black sulfide. Given the specimen by Arthur Montgomery. In a Perky box."
- Rock H. Currier

Throughout his life, Rock had the good fortune to rub elbows with some of the most famous figures in 20th century mineralogy. Few mineralogists receive the instant name recognition of Arthur Montgomery (1909-1999), famed mineral collector and dealer responsible for many major discoveries throughout the American southwest. When he wasn't traipsing through the mountains of New Mexico or Utah, "Art" could be found teaching geology at Lafayette College in Pennsylvania. His time as a teacher earned him many recognitions, including the Ralph Digman Award of the National Association of Geology Teachers for "the improvement of earth-science teaching." Much of Montgomery's personal collection now sits at Princeton, NJ, but during a meeting with Rock in 1970, Art passed on this attractive gold thumbnail. While Montgomery certainly had a fine taste in Native Gold, it does not appear that he provided Rock any additional locality information. Placer County hosts a number of historic California Gold finds, including the famous discovery at Sutter's Mill, which sparked the California Gold Rush in 1849.
Overall Measurements: 0.7 x 0.8 x 0.8 inches (1.9 x 2.0 x 2.1 cm)
Weight: 11 grams
Offered at no reserve

Provenance: Gift from Arthur Montgomery [RHC #1486, acquired 1970]

[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.