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Our minimum order is US$25.00!
CATALOG 20905 - Vol. XXXVI, No. 5- All items
subject to prior sale, FOB our warehouse. Posted June 20, 2009.
ALBITE variety PERISTERITE- Macomb, St. Lawrence Co., New York
Reasonably well formed, blocky crystals to 1.2cm of grayish white, translucent
albite richly scattered on matrix, some showing the unique "blue
flash" labradorescence so well known for peristerite. The specimen
is likely from the old Ellis Farm occurrence and is reasonably well crystallized,
overall size about 8x5cm @ 48.00. One only!
ALUNOGEN- Tarapaca, Chile
An old specimen, ex-Michigan College of Mines, comprised of dense white
sulfates completely intergrown and forming a small fist-sized ball of
efflorescent but reasonably solid alunogen, likely intermixed with other
sulfate phases. A Dana locality specimen, the sample measures about 7x6x5cm
@ 55.00. One only!
ANILITE- Painesdale, Houghton Co., Michigan
From a new find, and now the first analytically confirmed occurrence for
the species in Michigan, we have a good selection of brilliant, metallic
greyish blue to nearly black splendant aggregates and masses of anilite
in seams in white quartz matrix, many with malachite and possibly other
secondary copper minerals very richly scattered. XRD data on unground
material (copy supplied) by Michigan's Seaman Mineral Museum curator Dr.
George Robinson, shows trace admixed chalcocite but otherwise nearly pure
anilite at this new surface find!!! Perhaps the richest material ever
encountered for the species, the first confirmed for the state, specimens
from about 3cm to monster 15cm specimens @ 20.00, 30.00, 45.00, 60.00,
75.00, 100.00, and 150.00 each. Extremely heavy! WOW!
BERTRANDITE- Kara Oba, Kazakhstan
White hemimorphic sprays and flattened groups of bertrandite crystals
up to 6mm perched on quartz matrix, some with minor rhodochrosite, pyrite,
fluorite or wolframite. Excellent for the species, we have several specimens,
some smaller ones with micro potential as well, matrix sizes averaging
from 2.5cm to nearly 6cm across @ 25.00, 45.00, 75.00 and 90.00 each.
Attractive and rich, priced according to quality and size!
CATAPLEIITE- Laven Isl., Langesundsfjord, Norway
Old material from the type locality for the mineral, occurring here as
beige to tan colored tabular aggregates to 1.5cm scattered in nepheline
matrix, typically with aegirine or other species. Classic material, sizes
from 2.5cm to 4cm @ 15.00, 25.00 and 40.00 each.
CEJKAITE- Svornost Mine, Jachymov, Czech Republic
This relatively NEW URANIUM CARBONATE SPECIES occurs as minute, lemon
yellow globules and crusts sparsely scattered on matrix. Formula: Na4(UO2)(CO3)3
- recently IMA-approved. Each sample accompanied by a copy of a Jiri Cejka
signed label; type locality material, of course, a tiny speck (30x needed)
in capsule @ 45.00; matrix samples from 0.3cm to nearly 0.6cm @ 85.00,
100.00 and 125.00 depending on size and richness.
CHAOITE- Ries Crater, Bopfingen, Bavaria, Germany
Specimens of shocked graphite gneiss showing fused silica glass pods and
greyish carbon inclusions from the famous Nordlingen Ries crater. Chaoite
occurs as submicroscopic inclusions with the graphite and was originally
described as an unnamed polymorph of carbon in 1969. Relatively large
specimens from this famous crater, sizes from 3.5cm to 12cm across @ 15.00,
25.00, 40.00 and 65.00 each.
CLINTONITE var. XANTHOPHYLLITE- Crestmore Quarry, Riverside Co., California
Typical multiphase Crestmore material, consisting of micaceous cleavages
of golden brown xanthophyllite distributed through brown monticellite,
with possible blue calcite, vesuvianite, or diopside associates. Older
material from this now mostly defunct locality. Sizes from 3cm to 7cm
@ 10.00, 20.00, or 35.00 each.
CREEDITE- Wagon Wheel Gap, nr. Creede, Colorado
Slender, pointed single crystal slivers of TYPE LOCALITY creedite, here
as matrix-free individuals ranging from about 1cm to nearly 2cm tall.
Although we have more attractive samples in stock, (Mexico, Nevada, Bolivia
etc.), these are from the discovery locality in the Creede quadrangle,
described in 1916 by Esper Larsen et. al. Individuals are very reasonably
priced at just 5.00 and 7.50 each from this historical occurrence; a few
crude groups of similar size @ 10.00 each.
DIAMOND (1.73cts)- Orangemund, Orange River, Namibia
A gemmy, white macle twin diamond crystal without matrix, showing a dark
red inclusion directly in the center of the macle face. A rather stout
and attractive specimen, overall about 7x6mm and weighing 1.73 carats,
pictured on our diamond website (www.diamondcrystals.net), this handsome,
gemmy diamond crystal is just 700.00!
DANBURITE- Russell, St. Lawrence Co., New York
This old classic has several 0.5 to 1cm pale brownish grey danburite crustals
and sections perched in a well-exposed 4cm vug in matrix. Ex-Academy of
Mineralogy (NY State Museum Institute), with label, and old Rochester
Symposium label as well. Overall size is 9x5cm @ only 100.00. A few slightly
better crystallized, old specimens ex-Michigan Mining College @ 125.00
each.
EKATERINITE- Korshunovskoye, Irkutsk, Siberia, Russia
A rare borate from the TYPE LOCALITY, ekatarinite occurs here as white
fibrous crusts richly scattered on greyish marble/anhydrite matrix. Rarely
offered and quite difficult to obtain, we have only five small specimens
averaging about 1.5cm across @ 80.00 each.
FAYALITE variety KNEBELITE- Svartberg, Dalarna, Sweden
Dense, solid massive specimens comprised of brownish black manganoan fayalite
(variety knebelite). The material was once considered a species until
the late 1970's when studies showed it be a borderline member of the fayalite-tephroite
series (Mn-Fe rich, respectively). Specimens range from about 2.5cm to
4.5cm @ 10.00, 20.00 and 35.00.
FIBROFERRITE- Borate, San Bernardino Co., California
Rich masses of fibroferrite, occuring as earthy, somewhat crumbly material
on matrix. Occasional areas of a paler yellow silky habit present on some
specimens. Old Cureton material from the 1970's, sizes from 1.8cm to 4cm
@ 15.00, 25.00, and 50.00 each.
FLUORINE DOMINANT DRAVITE- Cream of Valley Rd, nr Gouverneur, New York
In Hawthorne's IMA classification of the tourmaline group (1999), the
mineral name fluor-dravite was proposed as a new theoretical end member
within the tourmaline group. Recent work by scientists at the New York
State Museum and Canadian Museum of Nature (see R&M, Vol. 83, July/Aug)
indicates that a formal IMA proposal for this fluorine-dominant dravite
is being submitted based on work on specimens from this specific occurrence.
The mineral occurs as nearly black, finger-thick prismatic crystal sections,
here largely removed from matrix, collected in July, 2002, and subsequently
purchased by us from the Dr. Steve Chamberlain collection in 2005. As
of 2007, the locality had been completely depleted. The crystals average
about 2cm across and are otherwise unremarkable, offered at just 60.00
each, soon to be "type lcality" specimens for this new tourmaline
group member. Each specimen includes Chamberlain's fluor-dravite label
as well. Note: as of this writing, we are unaware of a formal IMA approval
of "fluor-dravite" beyond Hawthorne's original suggested nomenclature
proposal!
HALURGITE- Chelkar Salt Dome, Aksai Valley, Kazakhstan
We have only a few relatively pure samples of halurgite available. These
tiny specimens, contained in capsules, are
extremely rare and are from the type locality for the species. Offered
here for only the second time in our 35 year history, these are actually
less expensive than when originally sold out more than a dozen years ago.
Type locality material, tiny grain in capsule @ 55.00 each.
HAWLEYITE on SPHALERITE- Alpine Mine, Pershing Co., Nevada
Dull yellowish orange filmy mases of this cadmium sulfide lightly scattered
over shalerite/quartz ore matrix. EDS confirmed, hawleyite is more likely
than similar material erroneously reported as greenockite that requires
XRD to properly distinguish. A new Nevada locality, about 2cm to 7cm across
@ only 12.50, 25.00 and 45.00 each.
KRISTIANSENITE- Oltrefiume Quarry, Piemonte, Italy
A rare scandium-tin mineral, kristiansenite occurs here as tiny, water-clear
to whitish crystal aggregates perched in feldspar vugs, associated with
minor mica and quartz. This Baveno locality is the second reported locality
for the species, and we have just a few specimens on hand, averaging 2-2.5cm
across @ just 75.00 each.
KROEHNKITE- Chuquicamata, Antofagasta, Chile
Rich, bright blue and attractive translucent kroenhkite, the better samples
largely comprising matrix! While occasional crystal faces may be present,
most of this material occurs as cleavable masses and is one of the most
attractive of the Chilean materials. Rare and quite nice! Sizes in ascending
quality: 1cm to 4cm across @ 20.00, 35.00, 55.00, and 85.00 each.
LANARKITE- Wanlockhead, Leadhills, Scotland
A pair of exceptioanlly attractive mounted micro's, ex-Weber/Perloff Collection,
showing excellent, elongated needle-like sprays of lanarkite, perched
in vuggy, black slag matrix, these noted from "Meadowfoot Mill"
in Perloff's hand on the boxes! Only two, superb micro's, @ 85.00 each.
List alternates!
MAJAKITE etc.- Majak Mine, Talnach, Norilsk, Russia
From the type locality, we have a pair of polished ore samples in 2.5cm
probe mounts, accompanied by two SEM images and a full quantitative chemical
analysis. In addition to the majakite, the report identifies at least
eight (!!) other minerals as well. Only two, superbly documented samples
available @ 165.00 each.
MANGANITE- Ilfeld, Harz, Germany
Brilliant, silvery black elongated crystals of manganite to 1cm long nicely
scattered on greyish white barite matrix. Classic locality and excellent
crystalization on these old pieces, matrix sizes from about 2.5cm to 6cm
@ only 15.00, 25.00, 40.00 and 65.00 each, depending on quality.
MARIALITE- Aracruz, Espirito Santo, Brazil
Oddly etched, pale yellow spodumene-like elongated single crystal sections
of analyzed marialite without matrix, all showing reasonably good transparency
for this Na-dominent scapolite group mineral. Only a few specimens available,
pencil thick prisms ranging from about 2cm to 3.5cm long @ 10.00, 15.00
and 20.00 each.
METAVARISCITE with VARISCITE- Lucin Hill, Box Elder Co., Utah
Excellent micro crystals of tabular to elongated transparent to pale green
metavariscite crystals richly scattered in seams with green variscite.
Some crystals are nearly equant and show interesting twinning, and all
have super micro potential. Matrix sizes from 1.5cm to 6cm @ 7.50, 15.00,
25.00 and 45.00 each. Great stuff & old locality!!
OKHOTSKITE- Kokuriki Mine, Hokkaido, Japan
Deep orange brown vitreous masses of this rare mineral very sparsely scattered
in thin veinlets massive brown hematitic ore. Type locality material,
sizes from 0.7 to 1.5cm @ 25.00, 50.00 and 75.00. One sample of 2.5cm
@ 185.00. Rare stuff!
OVAMBOITE- Tsumeb, Namibia
This exceptionally rare mineral was approved more than a dozen years ago
but remained unpublished for some time, and it is now available for only
a single specimen once again. The mineral occurs as minute inclusions
in a gallium-rich germanite, typically associated with galena and possibly
other phases. We have ONLY ONE specimen on hand as 1.5cm polished ore
sample in a 2.5cm probe mount, with two pinpointing SEM backscatter images
plus full quantitative chemistry! Formula: Cu20(Fe,Cu2+,Zn)6(Ge,As,Ga)6W2S32-
IMA# 1992-039 @ 450.00
PARAROBERTSITE- Tip Top Mine, Custer Co., South Dakota
Minute, deep red flattened crystalline aggregates of this rare species,
typically on quartz and/or whitlockite. Type locality material from the
original find by Bill Roberts many years ago, we have only a few tiny
framents on hand, each in a capsule @ 75.00 each. List alternates!
PHOSGENITE- Laurium, Attica Peninsula, Greece
Tetragonal prismatic to tabular colorless micro crystals of adamantine
phosgenite in ancient slag matrix, some associated with paralaurionite
or othe rphases. Old material, originally supplied to us by Dr. Paul Sainfeld
(sainfeldite) from the French School of Mines in Paris many years ago.
Only a few specimens available, most with micro potential as well, sizes
from 2cm to 4cm @ 45.00 and 75.00 each.
PINNOITE- Inder Boron Deposit, Kaszakhstan
This uncommon Mg-borate occurs here as water-clear, micro crystals scattered
on chalky white matrix, from one of the better crystallized occurrences
for the mineral. Good micro potential, only a few TN's available @ just
24.00 each!
POWELLITE (FL)- Goodall Quarry, Sanford, Maine
Old stuff collected many years ago, consisting of tiny fluorescent (SW
UV) powellite grains very sparsely scattered in andesite/vesuvianite matrix,
some with minor flakes of molybdenite. A weird assemblage, not much to
look at, from a well-known locality for the vesuvianites. Specimens about
3cm to 7cm @ just 10.00, 20.00 and 30.00 each.
RHODOCHROSITE with QUARTZ- Sweet Home Mine, Alma, Colorado
From an old stash, we have a nice selection of opaque pink rhodochrosite
rhombs to 0.5cm nicely perched on elongated, spiky quartz crystals, occasionally
as densely intergrown pink groups, sometimes associated with fluorite
and/or assorted sulfides. Moderately attractive and relatively inexpensive
for the locality, sizes from about 2.5cm to 4.5cm @ 20.00, 35.00 and 50.00
each.
SHIBKOVITE in REEDMERGNERITE- Dara-i-Pioz, Alai Range, Tadjikistan
This relatively NEW SPECIES occurs as minute colorless aggregates and
grains up to several millimeters in localized pods in solid and spectacular
reedmergnerite matrix, some potentially associated with polylithionite,
dark red kentbrooksite or possibly other phases. The mineral is brilliantly
fluorescent (carmine red in SW UV), and was IMA-approved about a dozen
years ago. All specimens with arrows, matrix sizes average 3cm across
@ 165.00.
STOKESITE- Corrego do Urucum, Galileia, M.G., Brazil
Minute, transparent glassy orthorhombic micro crystals of this unusual
species richly scattered on a ball-like matrix of complex albite crystals,
some with minor lepidolite or other phases. From an old lot of more than
15 years ago, only five of these 1.5cm balls are available @ 125.00 each.
Nice!
STRENGITE, CO3-rich APATITE- McLean Mine, Esmeralda Co., Nevada
Tiny, micro balls of spikey, ice-like carbonate-fluorapatite sparsely
scattered on honey-brown jarosite crystals, most with large, weird, murky
greenish brown pods of strengite that reach several cm across! (Yes, I
know, "carbonate-fluorapatite" is properly called carbonate-rich
apatite-(CaF) now, but really.....). Some samples occasionally with odd,
spongey goethite. Strange material with large vugs, not bad to look at,
strictly micro for the apatite, however, with only four large specimens
on hand, ranging from about 8cm to 15cm across @ just 40.00, 60.00 and
85.00 ea
URANINITE with SILVER- Eldorado Mi, Great Bear Lake, NWT, Canada
A large block of silver/pitchblende ore from this prolific, old locality,
presented here as a very heavy hand specimen with two cut faces, one nicely
polished to show the thin masses of native silver shot through the uranifierous
rock matrix. A desirable specimen for both the native element and radioactive
mineral collector! We advertised a similar sample some years ago and had
numerous requests for it, but we had "put it where it would be safe"
and could not locate until a housekeeping frenzy just turned it up now!
Only moderately hot, ex-J. Cilen collection with several other labels,
this triangular specimen measures about 10 x 7 x 6 cm @ 175.00..
VISEITE w/ TROLLEITE- Champion Sillimanite Mine, Mono Co. California
Blue-green masses of granular trolleite bear small cavities that are lined
with a froth of white, chalky viseite. A rare mineral in an interesting
and well-documented assemblage, old specimens ranging in size from 0.5cm
to 5cm @ 15.00, 25.00, 40.00 and 60.00 each.
VOLKOVSKITE- Satimola Salt Dome, Batys Qazaqstan Kazakhstan
This uncommon species is offered here as colorless, lamellar single crystals
and aggregates, averaging about 2mm across. This is a new locality for
the mineral, these extracted from a single drill core and recently analytically
confirmed. Only a few available from this new locality for the species,
carefully packaged in a capsule @ just 40.00.
ZAVARITSKITE- Fielders Hill, Torrington, NSW, Australia
An uncommon member of the matlockite group, zavaritskite occurs here as
small, dark grey resinous masses sparsely scattered in crudely crystallized
quartz matrix. These lean halide samples were obtained by Forrest Cureton
in 1985-86 from this previously unreported occurrence for the mineral,
and they were just recently rediscovered in our warehouse! Only a few
specimens on hand, these average about 2cm @ 25.00 each.
NEW BOOK!
MINERALS OF SCOTLAND- by Alec Livingstone
A wonderful new softcover book in a large format, perfect binding, with
220 pages filled with history, science and over 200 illustrations (most
in full color) depicting some of the finest of Scotland's many (552) mineral
species. By the former curator of minerals of the Nation Museums of Scotland,
a very useful book for every mineral collector (see review in June, 2009
Mineral News), just 39.00 plus 5.00 s/h in USA!
FLATS!
MYSTERY FLAT- Various Localities Worldwide
We are offering these popular "mystery flats" of twenty (20)
different specimens from worldwide localities, all individually labeled
and ranging in size from 4cm to 7cm across for the princely sum of just
$125 plus shipping. These are from old collections, excess stock, single
specimens and material available only in small quantities too labor intensive
to describe and catalog. Some will be colorful, some will be ugly, some
will have micro potential, some from obscure localities, but the lot will
be worth a minimum of $250 or more, yours sight-unseen for our liquidation
price of just $125 plus shipping! Multiple orders up to three sets (60
specimens) received at the same time will not have duplicates! If you've
ordered one recently, send us a list of what was included and we will
try not to duplicate anything previously sent! A bargain for anyone wishing
to expand their collection horizons!
STUFF!
COLLECTION: RAILROAD PHOTOS- Eastern Pennsylvania
These have absolutely nothing to do with minerals, but when we buy collections,
we sometimes end up with other "stuff" that is interesting but
far outside our field. That's the case here: a large collection of railroad
photographs, all in 8x10 inch black & white glossy prints! These have
a variety of subjects, many Penn Central, some PRR like GG-1 engines,
employee studio shots, stations, track shots, commuter trains etc. Although
not dated, these appear to be 1960's-1970's vintage, mostly eastern Pennsylvania,
perhaps a few older steam images etc. If you are a railroad buff, we have
a deal for you: 15 different large 8x10 photo's for just 20.00; 45 different
50.00. Probably cheaper than the original cost to print them, and when
these are gone, they are gone for good! Anyone looking for a larger lot
with duplication, please inquire!
CATALOG 20904 - Vol. XXXVI, No. 4- All items
subject to prior sale, FOB our warehouse. Posted May 11,2009.
AESCHYNITE-(Nd)- Bayun Obo, Inner Mongolia, Peoples Rep. China
This rare mineral is offered here as tiny, dark brown tabular masses in
a 1cm+ polished probe mount, most with minor barite, aegirine etc. Each
specimen is accompanied by an SEM image and four quantitative analyses
confirming minor Pr and Sm as well! Only three available, nicely documented,
@ 150.00 each. List alternates!
ALUMOHYDROCALCITE (Chromian)- Mt. Hamilton, Santa Clara Co., California
An attractive chromium-rich variety of normally white aluminohydrocalcite,
consisting of pink stringers and crystalline coatings scattered over a
pale green to white jadeite bearing rock. Nice looking stuff collected
many years ago, from 2.5cm to 5cm @ 15.00, 25.00, and 40.00.
ALUNITE- McLean Mine, Esmeralda Co., Nevada
Perhaps the best U.S. examples of the species we have seen, these alunites
occur as micro, wafer-like, white to beige curved rhombohedral disks richly
scattered in vugs in light colored matrix, all showing attractive pearly
luster under the scope. Rarely well crystallized, these are quite nice
for a typically massive, ugly mineral! Specimens range from about 2.5cm
TN's to 6cm @ just 5.00, 10.00, and 25.00 each; one fine 12x10cm specimen
@ 50.00.
AMBER with INSECTS- Danzig Region, Poland
Reasonably large, transparent amber lozenges, each with a tiny included
winged creature! Hand-selected from a large collection, these are generously
sized and quite fascinating, each accompanied by its own color photograph
of the included insect! Sizes average 2cm to 3.5cm long, and are only
20.00, 25.00 and 30.00 each, depending on size and the quality of the
bug!
ANATASE- Datas, Minas Gerais, Brazil
More of the strangest specimens of anatase we've ever seen, these with
a central tetragonal body but with their pyramidal faces extended to resemble
a sample that has been literally pulled like taffy to elongated, pointed
tips! Named for the Greek "extension", these are superb examples
of the species, boxed crystals to 1cm @ only 20.00.
AURICHALCITE- Dauntless Mine, White Pine Co., Nevada
Bright, robin's egg blue crystalline sprays and platy aggregates of colorful
aurichalcite scattered in seams and vugs of deep brown, cherty matrix,
some with minor hemimorphite, calcite etc. Attractive stuff, unusual locality,
specimens from about 2cm to 7cm, priced according to overall quality @
5.00, 15.00 and 30.00 each. Nice!
AWARUITE variety JOSEPHINITE- Josephine Creek, Oregon
These are interesting metallic placer nuggets of non-meteoritic nickel-iron,
quite pure and with typical brownish external hues. Difficult to obtain
today, these are old specimens in odd bean-shaped rounded masses, sizes
average 0.6cm to 1.2cm @ 25.00, 50.00 and 75.00 each.
BARITE with INCLUSIONS- Regent Mine, Mineral Co., Nevada
Transparent tabular crystals of well-formed barite to 1cm nicely scattered
on matrix, a few with very sparse, micro inclusions of a fibrous yellow-orange
mineral purported to be wakabayashilite. In the past, we have found orpiment,
realgar and possibly other species in these included crystals, but we
have not destroyed any from this old batch recently uncovered in the warehouse
to confirm the literature reports of wakabayashilite. Moderately attractive
specimens for this common mineral, sizes from TN to about 6cm across @
6.00, 12.50, 20.00 and 35.00 each.
BAUMHAUERITE-2A- La Libertad Mine, Quiruvilca, Peru
Somewhat metallic appearing purplish masses of this unusual species scattered
on matrix, most associated with micro rods and needles of hutchinsonite
and occasionally orange druses of crystallized orpiment. From a find of
about 25 years ago, we have a few small (2cm to 4cm) specimens @ 40.00
and 60.00 each.
BISMUTITE ps @ BISMUTHINITE- Great Basin Mine, Nye Co., Nevada
An odd occurrence of white to pale greenish bismutite forming pods and
elongated masses pseudomorphous after bismuthinite! These sit in a matrix
of crudely crystalline, dark brownish grossular, the garnet occasionally
showing a few sharp faces as well. Soon to be a feature article in Mineral
News (subscribe though us if you don't already!!!), these weird specimens
range from about 2.5cm to 5+cm across @ just 12.50, 20.00 and 30.00 each.
CALCITE pseudo @ NAHCOLITE- Green River, Sweetwater Co., Wyoming
A hefty sample collected by famous geologist E.Wm. Heinrich many years
ago, comprised of a rather solid block of buff colored calcite completely
replacing a thick seam of massive nahcolite. Ugly but interesting, with
Heinrich's label, size about 9x7cm @ just 40.00.
CHALCOPYRITE- Siegen, Westphalia, Germany
An old specimen, accompanied by a Krantz label and ex-Michigan College
of Mines label as well, is comprised of a solid mass of heavily tarnished
chalcopyrite, most surfaces coated with pale bluish green secondary coppers
as well. From an old classic locality, we have just a single speicmen
about 5x3cm @ 40.00.
CHEVKINITE-(Ce)- Tangir Mine, nr. Arondu, Kohistan, Pakistan
Black crystalline aggregates of chevkinite-Ce comprising these small,
interesting samples from an obscure locality. Analyzed material, specimen
sizes from about 5mm to 8mm @ 25.00 and 35.00 each.
CHIAVENNITE- Heia Quarry, Tvedalen, Norway
Minute orange-brown micro crystals scattered on matrix, some with associated
analcime. From the find of about twenty years ago, a small lot of fine
micros and thumbnails, sizes from 0.5cm to 2cm @ 15.00, 25.00 and 45.00.
CLINOBISVANITE- Londonderry Quarry, W.A., Australia
Brownish-yellow masses and thin films of clinobisvanite on quartz matrix.
X-ray confirmed material, available as small fragment in capsule @ 15.00
and matrix specimens from 1.5cm to 8cm @ 25.00, 40.00, 55.00 and 75.00.
COBALTOMENITE- Parco Mine, Grand Co., Utah
An interesting find of deep pinkish micro blebs and aggregates scattered
on sandstone matrix, one of several unusual species recently uncovered
at this mine. This cobalt selenate is available in matrix sizes from about
2cm to 6cm @ 12.50, 25.00 and 40.00 each. A few monsters to 12 cm - inquire!
CUPRITE- Rubtsovskoe Mine, Rudniy Altai, Russia
A remarkable single crystal of cuprite without matrix, showing several
good octahedral faces with some cube modifications and others. Although
heavily contacted on three sides, the specimen is highly lustrous and
quite a monster, weighing over 240 carats and standing 3.2cm tip to tip.
Only one available @ 175.00.
DIAMOND (10.58 carats)- Macenta Region, MNalenka Province, Guinea
An oddly-shaped, large diamond crystal, loosely resembling the head of
a caveman's stone tool, showing a grey, highly lustrous and translucent
complex form. The crystal weights 10.58 carats and measures about 14x13x7
mm, available for just 700.00! See a photo on our diamond website: www.diamondcrystals.net.
Uncommon locality!
FLUORITE with CALCITE- Freiberg, Saxony, Germany
Another old classic, this one comprised of stout, greyish white intergrown
fluorite cubes to 2cm forming the specimen matrix, and these are almost
completed covered with small, gemmy, pale yellowish grey transparent to
translucent calcite crystals. Ex-Czech National Museum specimen and accompanied
by their label, this attractive 8x5cm hand specimen is just 75.00! List
alternates!
GALLITE in GERMANITE- Tsumeb, Namibia
A 2cm polished ore section in a 2.5cm probe mount, comprised of gallite
in germanite with minor galena. This rare Ga-Cu sulfide is accompanied
by an SEM backscatter image, plus quantitative analytical results for
the pinpointed gallite (all showing trace Cd and Ti as well!). Only one
finely documented ore sample available @ 240.00.
GEARKSUTITE- Burlington Mine, Boulder Co., Colorado
Rich, white porcelanous masses of gearksutite largely comprising matrix,
some with extraordinarily ugly greyish fluorite. The locality was once
a prolific producer of this hydrated Ca-Al-OH-F mineral, and this is old
material from a brief mining of the mineral some years ago. Remarkably
rich, dense specimens from about 3cm to 10cm across @ 8.50, 15.00, 30.00
and 50.00 each.
GETCHELLITE- Getchell Mine, Humboldt Co., Nevada
From the famous South Pit discovery many years ago, getchellite occurs
as deep red, platy to micaceous aggregates scattered in matrix, most with
orpiment and occasionally minor realgar. Classic material and quite colorful,
sizes from 2.5cm to 7cm @ 10.00, 20.00, 35.00, 50.00 and 75.00 each. Rich!
HUBNERITE- Adams Mine, San Juan Co., Colorado
From a large, old collection, we have numerous samples of brilliant brownish
red to bronze colored hubnerite crystals richly scattered in and on matrix,
the better specimens with free-standing crystals to a couple of centimeters
nicely radiating from matrix. Priced according to quality and size, specimens
range from about 2cm to 6cm across @ 15.00, 25.00, 45.00, 75.00 and 125.00
each. Excellent!
JAROSITE- McLean Mine, Esmeralda Co., Nevada
A remarkable find of brilliant, coffee-brown drusy jarosite crystal groups
richly filling large vugs in pale rock matrix. These are very striking
specimens for a relatively common mineral, and all have excellent micro
potential as well. These lustrous micro crystals are as good as the type
locality material we have seen, and the specimens are quite attractive
as a result. Matrix sizes range from about 2.5cm to 6cm @ only 4.00, 10.00
and 20.00 each, with a few larger specimens from 9cm to the largest 24cm
(!!) specimen, priced at 50.00, 75.00, 100.00, and 150.00 each. All are
attention grabbers!
JOHACHIDOLITE- Pyant Gyi Mine, Mogok, (Burma) Myanmar
This rare species occurs here as golden, honey brown crystalline aggregates
largely comprising matrix, recently discovered in the gem gravels at this,
the second known locality for the species, occasionally with minor fluorescent
sodalite. This rare borate has been confirmed by XRD, microprobe and Raman
spectra as well, with a copy of XRD data supplied with each sample. Sizes
range from about 5mm to 1.4cm @ 45.00, 75.00 and 150.00 each.
MAGNESIOHASTINGSITE- Boston Mine, Orange Co., New York
Rich, nearly black solid aggregates of this uncommon mineral almost completely
comprising matrix, some with minor pyrite or paler green diopside. Analytically
confirmed material, with a copy of our analysis supplied with each specimen.
Uncommon locality stuff from 3cm to 6cm and are very reasonably priced
at just 10.00, 20.00 and 35.00.
MAGNETITE- Segerstrom-Heizer Mine, Pershing Co Nevada
An off-beat locality specimen comprised of rather large, somewhat rounded
octahedral crystals of magnetite completely comprising matrix, with octahedra
measuring up to 5cm across (!!!) thickly intergrown and protruding from
massive magnetite matrix. An exceptional, museum-sized specimen measuring
18x13cm (!!!) on its top surface, completely covered with octahedral crystals
that show typical abrasions and micro pitting on otherwise lustrous faces,
one only, weighing over 10 pounds, @ 175.00.
NAGELSCHMIDTITE- Hatrurim Basin, Negev Desert, Israel
This extremely rare species occurs as microscopic inclusions within an
Ti-rich andradite-bearing rock. Each small sample (up to a few millimeters)
is mounted and accompanied by four (4) color images using SEM backscattered
electron imaging, as well as ordinary and reflected light microscopy that
pinpoints the mineral in the sample, and also includes full analytical
chemistry of each as well! A strange formula for this weird silicate-phosphate,
generally given as Ca7(SiO4)3(PO4)2, analytically closer to (K,Na)Ca7(SiO4)3(PO4);
only a pair of these superbly documented samples available @ 450.00 each;
type locality, of course!
ORLOVITE with TURKESTANITE- Dara-i-Pioz, Tien Shan, Tadjikistan
The NEW SPECIES orlovite occurs as small masses (0.5mm) largely comprising
these carefully prepared and polished matrix fragments, typically with
minute inclusions of turkestanite and occasionally other minerals. Formula:
Kli2TiSi4O11F - IMA# 2009-006. These are professionally prepared 2cm probe
mounts with a detailed and labelled SEM backscatter image and X-ray spectra,
only a few available, @ 285.00 each.
RALSTONITE w/ THOMSENOLITE- Ivigtut, Arksuk Fjord, Greenland
Large masses of white cryolite showing open vugs containing numerous micro
crystals of prismatic thomsenolite, with small, cubic transparent ralstonite
crystals sparsely scattered as well! Good micro potential from this classic
material, matrix sizes range from about 3cm to 7cm @ 25.00, 40.00, 60.00
and 85.00 each.
RAUVITE- Monument #2 Mine, Apache Co., Arizona
Non-descript brown bands of rauvite impregnating sandstone, associated
with roscoelite flakes and some with brownish-yellow pascoite coatings
as well. An odd, hard to find mineral, only a few available from 2cm to
nearly 5cm @ 15.00, 25.00, and 40.00 each. One rich 8cm specimen @ 75.00.
RHODOCHROSITE- Grand Rapids, Minnesota
Flesh-colored and with an unusually resinous luster, these small (2 to
5 mm) crystals of rhodochrosite fill in and fan out from seams in a brick
red slab matrix. Great locality, unusual for the species, sizes from 3cm
to 4cm @ 35.00 and 50.00. Old stuff; only a few on hand!
RIVERSIDEITE- Crestmore Quarry, Riverside Co., California
Another mineral first found at this prolific locality, riversideite occurs
as opaque white fibrous masses and veinlets running through pale green
vesuvianite rock, possibly associated with other calcium silicates. Typical
representative material, and fairly rich, in sizes from 2cm to 8cm @ 15.00,
30.00, 45.00 and 60.00 each.
ROSIAITE- Le Cetine Mine, nr. Rosia, Siena, Italy
This relatively NEW SPECIES occurs as pale, honey-yellow hexagonal micro
blades scattered on matrix. Formula: PbSb2O6; IMA-approved about 10 years
ago but rarely offered. Associations include micro gypsum and occasionally
a stunning, dark green tripuhyite. Matrix sizes from about 1cm to 2cm
@ 45.00, 60.00 and one @ 75.00 each.
SCHUETTEITE on CINNABAR- Castle Peak/Rock Mine, Esmeralda Co Nevada
A new locality for the species, schuettite occurs here as greenish yellow
crusts and films lightly scattered over rock matrix, typically with bright
red cinnabar crusts as well. Only a few samples found, EDX confirmed,
sizes from about 1.8cm to nearly 5cm @ 15.00, 25.00 and 40.00 each.
TARBUTTITE- Broken Hill Mine, Zambia
From the country formerly known as Rhodesia, we have specimens of this
zinc phosphate as clear, colorless to pale yellow, prismatic crystals
with sharp terminations. These tarbuttite crystals richly cover the dark
vuggy matrix, resulting in fairly attractive specimens. These will make
great micros as well. In sizes from 1 cm to 5 cm, at 7.50, 15.00, 30.00,
and 45.00; one large 10x7cm specimen @ 125.00.
TELLUROBISMUTHITE- Mangfallberg, Boliden, Sweden
A bismuth telluride, and a member of the tetradymite group, tellurobismthuite
occurs as silvery metallic masses scattered through a quartz-hornblende
rock, associated with other sulfides ad tetradymite. Reasonably rich material,
in larger sizes from 4cm to 10cm @ 20.00, 45.00, and 80.00.
THORIANITE- Huntoon, Sri Lanka
Small brown cubo-octahedral crystals and partial crystals without matrix.
Old material supplied by Schortmann's many years ago (then labelled as
Ceylon). A bizarre locality for this unusual thorium oxide, specimens
from 2.5mm to nearly 5mm across at only 10.00, 15.00 and 20.00 each!
TITANITE- Junguni Hill, near Balaka, Malawi
A neat, off-beat locality for this silicate. Titanite occurs as nearly
transparent yellow rounded grains and mm-sized microcrystals scattered
through a granite-like matrix. Analytically confirmed, 2.5 cm to 6 cm
@ 8.50, 15.00, & 30.00.
TREMOLITE w/ ANTHOPHYLLITE- Talcville, St. Lawrence Co., New York
Massive crystalline tremolite comprising matrix, all quite nicely fluorescent
a rich orange under SW UV light, and many associated with thicker anthophyllite
blades that fluoresce a deep crimson under both LW and SW, occasionally
with other species! Excellent fluorescent pieces, sizes from 2.5cm to
10cm across @ 5.00, 7.50, 15.00, 25.00 and 40.00 each.
VISTEPITE- Muzeinyi Valley, Inyl'chuk, Kyrgyzstan
A mineral with very weird chemistry (Mn-Sn-B-silicate!) from the type
locality, discovered in 1991 but rarely seen. We have obtained a few microprobed
samples from one of the authors, offered here as minute (<1mm) pure
yellow-orange aggregates in a 2cm probe mount, accompanied by an individual
SEM backscatter image and spectra for each. Rare stuff, elegantly documented,
@ 240.00 each. List alternates, please!
WOLFRAMITE- Pasaquiera, Barroca Grande, Portugal
A remarkably large assortment of superbly detailed single crystals and
complex groups of wolframite from this classic locality, most with little
or no matrix. These typically have very sharp chisel pointed single terminations
with complete prism faces that enhance these exquisite old pieces. We
have not analyzed these samples, but they are likely the ferberite member
of the group. Sizes range from about 3.5cm to 7x5cm groups @ 50.00, 75.00,
125.00, 200.00 and 275.00 each. Excellent, rich specimens!
ZINCITE- Franklin, Sussex Co., New Jersey
Brilliant, deep red to red-brown platy aggregates of zincite scattered
in and comprising matrix, many with minor franklinite and/or willemite,
calcite or greyish tephroite as well. Old material from more than 50 years
ago, gleaned from several old collections, selected for the richness of
the zincite alone. No contemporary Sterling Hill material in this lot,
sizes from about 4cm to 8cm (!!), priced at 20.00, 35.00, 50.00 and 75.00
each. Excellent for the species!
BOOKS & MAGAZINES: MINERALS OF NEW YORK CITY- Rocks & Minerals
Magazine
If you are not a subscriber to Rocks & Minerals magazine but have
an interest in New York City minerlas, the May/June 2009 issue is something
you NEED to have. An excellent 35 page, full color article chronicles
the exciting mineralogy uncovered during the city's remarkable excursions
into its underlying bedrock, from the skyscrapers' foundations to subway
tunnels and more! We have a few available copies for just 8.95 with any
mineral order, or add 5.00 for shipping if ordered alone.
COLLECTIONS
MYSTERY FLAT- Various Localities Worldwide
Once a month, we are offering these popular "mystery flats"
of twenty (20) different specimens from worldwide localities, all individually
labeled and ranging in size from 4cm to 7cm across for the princely sum
of just $125 plus shipping. These are from old collections, excess stock,
single specimens and material available only in small quantities too labor
intensive to describe and catalog. Some will be colorful, some will be
ugly, some will have micro potential, some from obscure localities, but
the lot will be worth a minimum of $250 or more, yours sight-unseen for
our liquidation price of just $125 plus shipping! Multiple orders up to
three sets (60 specimens) received at the same time will not have duplicates!
If you've ordered one recently, send us a list of what was included and
we will try not to duplicate anything previously sent! A bargain for anyone
wishing to expand their collection horizons!
STAMP COLLECTION:
MINERALS & MINING THEMES
A small but colorful collection of some forty (40) different mineral and
mining postage stamps from a large variety of foreign countries (no U.S.
stamps included!). Most of these are mint, a few used, all quite presentable,
and most are in full color and quite attractive. A neat side collection,
just $30 for the lot!
CATALOG 20903 - Vol. XXXVI, No. 3 - All items
subject to prior sale, FOB our warehouse. Posted April 12,2009.
AGUILARITE with CHALCOPYRITE- Penafil Mine, Guanajuato, Mexico
Superb skeletal micro crystal groups of aguilarite showing many weird
forms coated by somewhat iridescent filmy druses of chalcopyrite. We could
uncover little about this specific mine, other than it is in the aguilarite
type locality area of Guanajuato. These are exceptionally attractive mounted
micro's, perhaps unique for the locality, from the Weber-Perloff collection,
these appearing to be labelled by Lou Perloff. Only three availble @ 85.00
each.
ARDENNITE-(V)- Sparone, Valle di Locana, Piemonte, Italy
This relatively NEW SPECIEs occurs as yellowish-orange to brownish elongated
aggregates frozen in pinkish matrix, here from the TYPE locality, most
accurately noted as "Rio dei Piane, Feilongo". IMA # 2005-037,
the vanadium analog of the more common AsO4 ardennite. Only a few specimens,
sizes from about 2cm to 3.5cm @ 75.00 and 100.00 each.
BERYL var: CAT'S EYE GOSHENITE- nr. Jenipapo, Itinga, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Colorless, clear, thick tabular beryl (variety goshenite) without matrix,
here as thick single crystals that show good external morphology and an
internal reflection pattern commonly called an "cat's eye" when
moved in reflected light. Odd stuff and good single crystals as well,
sizes average about 3cm across @ 75.00 each. Only three!
CHERNYKHITE- Balasauskandyk, NW Karatau Range, Kazakhstan
This extremely rare Ba-V mica occurs as olive to dark green flakes to
5mm or more well scattered in quartz. Far superior to the material we
had some years ago, these are small but quite rich, sizes average about
1cm across @ 125.00 each, greatly reduced in price compared to the single
tiny flakes once available! TYPE locality material!
CHROMATITE- Ma'aleh Adumin, West Bank-Dead Sea, Israel
This rare mineral occurs here as bright yellow powdery masses on the surface
of a chalky white to pale yellowish marl matrix, these the first we have
seen from the TYPE locality described and approved back in 1963. Only
a few small matrix specimens available, averaging just under 2cm @ 150.00
each. A great rarity!
CLAUSTHALITE- Lasovice, Mittelbohemen, Czech Republic
Small dark masses of clasuthalite scattered in calcite matrix, most with
admixed tiemannite and possibly minor pitchblende. Old material from many
years ago, sizes average about 3.5cm across @ 40.00.
COLUMBITE-(Fe)- Morefield Mine, Amelia, Virginia
Recently uncovered in the warehouse, old material collected circa 1960
from this famous locality has yielded five specimens of analytically confirmed
columbite-(Fe)! The mineral occurs as crude crystals or aggregates from
6mm to 2cm long, frozen in pale feldspar matrix. Copy of our analysis
provided with each sample, matrix sizes from about 4cm to 8cm across @
45.00, 65.00 and 90.00 each, depending on size of the columbite-(Fe).
COPROLITE- Unspecified locality in Madagascar
For those really strange curiosity colelctors out there, we have obtained
a small load (no pun intended) of 40 million year old crocodile droppings,
replaced by a mixture of siderite and goethite but retaining their unique
and unmistakable form. Thankfully solid and odorless, these average about
6cm long @ just 15.00 each.
CORDIERITE variety IOLITE- Coroaci, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Thin glassy masses of color-change iolite without matrix, these carefully
etched out of thin seams and resulting in interesting, translucent bluish-purple
specimens. A 90 degree rotation turns these samples dark, so you can amaze
your friends! Sizes average about 1cm @ just 8.00 each!
CRYPTOPHYLLITE- Tsentral'nyi Mine, Rasvumchoor Mt., Russia
This NEW SPECIES was discovered during XRD study on IMA #2008-062, and
it forms colorless split or curved lamellae to 0.2mm, often as intergrowths
with the aforementioned mineral, being both chemically and structurally
related to it, although more uncommon at the locality. Both species represent
a new structural type of phyllosilicate. Formula: KCa[Si4O10]*5H2O - monoclinic.
Associations include lamprophyllite, eudialite, K-feldspar, aegirine etc..
IMA #2008-061, from the TYPE (and only) locality, sizes 2.5cm to 4cm @
145.00, 160.00 and 175.00.
DIAMOND (5.12 carats!)- Kimberly District, Northern Cape, Rep. So. Africa
A rather large greyish white octahedral single crystal, showing typical
trigonal growth patterns on the octahedral faces, and showing an detachment
point on one edge of the crystal. It has become exceedingly difficult
to locate relatively large crystals today, and this one is also pictured
on our diamondcrystals.net website. Size is 11x8x8mm, quite inexpensive
for its size and weight, at just 700.00.
DICKITE- St. Clair, Schuykill County, Pennsylvania
Nice looking dickite, unlike the typical fine grained to massive material
uusually found, this dickite occurs as somewhat micaceous pearly white
to tan flakes and minute crystals richly covering small quartz crystals
on rock. Fine old locality material, sizes from 3cm to 5cm @ 20.00 and
35.00 each.
FLUORO-POTASSICHASTINGSITE- Greenwood Mine, Orange Co., New York
This NEW SPECIES occurs as brilliant, black aggregates richly comprising
matrix, typically intergrown with minor granular magnetite. A fluorine-domiant
Ca-Fe amphibole, IMA #2005-006, here from the TYPE locality for the species.
Rich specimens accompanied by a copy of our analytical data, ranging in
size from about 2cm to nearly 5cm across @ just 20.00, 40.00 and 65.00
each.
GLAUCOPHANE- Mt. Vodno, Skopje, Macedonia
From a small recent find at this uncommon locality, we have a few samples
of glaucophane occurring as dark blue prismatic aggregates to 0.5cm long,
frozen in quartz matrix, typically with minor calcite and/or greenish
mica. Microprobe confirmed, specimens average about 3.5cm @ just 20.00
each.
GOLD with NAUMANNITE- Ken Snyder Mine, Elko Co., Nevada
Small masses of native gold visible under 10x nicely scattered along seams
in quartz-adularia vein matrix, associated with micro greyish naumannite
(a silver selenide) masses as well. Neat reference specimens, sizes average
about 2.5cm @ just 30.00 each. Only a few on hand!
HAIWEEITE- Teofilo Otoni, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Excellent micro platelets and aggreates of flakey, lemon yellow haiweeite
scattered on pegmatite matrix, some with minor uranophane. X-ray and IR
spectroscopy-identified, most with modest micro potential. From the find
of 1195 at this excellent locality! Sizes from single balls in capsules
@ 15.00 to matrix specimens of 1cm to 5cm across @ 30.00, 45.00, 75.00,
100.00 and 150.00 each.
HYDROXYLWAGNERITE- Dora-Maira Massif, Cuneo, Piemonte, Italy
This relatively NEW SPECIES occurs as small, somewhat creamy-beige colored
masses and aggregates scattered in a highly micaceous quartzite matrix,
most with tiny pyrope masses as well. Formula: Mg2(PO4)(OH)-monoclinic.
IMA #2004-009, from the TYPE locality, also more properly noted as "Brossasco,
Vallone Giba, Varaita Valley" in the Dora-Maira massif. Specimens
from about 3cm to nearly 6cm @ just 30.00, 45.00 and 60.00 each.
ILMENITE with ALBITE- nr Robinson Summit, White Pine Co., Nevada
Excellent micro material comprised of tiny, brilliantly metallic, tabular
(trigonal) ilmenite crystals perched on snowy white albite in vugs, associated
with drusy quartz and possibly other minerals. An uncommon locality for
the mineral, great under the 'scope, specimens from about 2.5cm to 6cm
@ only 5.00, 10.00 and 20.00 each.
KUDRIAVITE- Mutnovsky Volcano, Kamchatka Pen., Russia
From the second world occurrence of the species, these are steel grey,
acicular to lath shaped micro crystals to 0.5mm with brilliant metallic
luster on grey volcanic scoria, some possibly with lamellar cannizzarite.
A rare Cd-Pb sulfosalt, only a few confirmed specimens on hand, sizes
from 1cm to nearly 2.5cm @ 125.00 and 175.00 each.
KYANITE, STAUROLITE- Pizzo Forno, nr. St. Gothard, Switzerland
Light blue translucent kyanite blades richly scattered through white paragonite-rich
schist matrix with minor chocolate brown, vitreous staurolite as well.
A classic locality for these minerals, specimens from about 2.5cm to 4cm
across @ 10.00, 17.50 and 25.00 each.
MARINELLITE- Magliano Romano, Roma, Latium, Italy
This rare mineral (IMA 2002-021) was found here at an abandoned quarry
in 1982 from which these few specimens originated. The mineral occurs
as colorless to pale blue grains scattered in sanidine-biotite-augite
matrix. A rare member of the cancrinite group, specimens average 1.2 to
2cm @ just 45.00 and 55.00 each.
OSARIZAWAITE- Omega Mine, Santa Cruz Co., Arizona
Pale green globular masses and micro aggregates of osarizawaite richly
scattered in/on gossan matrix, occasionally with minor azurite and other
species. Odd locality, generous samples from 3cm to 8cm @ 15.00, 25.00,
40.00 and 65.00 each.
PARSETTENSITE- Foote Mine, Cleaveland Co., North Carolina
Old material collected many years ago, consisting of richly scattered
bronze-brown radiating spherules of micro parsettensite well scattered
in vugs on white albite. Attractive micro material from this prolific
locality, with odd-ball associations possible with careful study. Matrix
specimens from about 1cm to 5cm @ 7.50, 15.00, 30.00 and 50.00
PHARMACOSIDERITE- Boss Mine, Esmeralda Co., Nevada
Pale green to slightly brownish druses and cubes of pharmacosiderite nicely
scattered in vugs in tan banded rhyolitic matrix. A new locality for the
mineral, many with fine micro potential as well, matrix sizes from about
2cm to 4cm across @ just 5.00, 10.00 and 15.00 each. Neat!
PHOSPHOELLENBERGITE- Dora-Maira Massif, Cuneo, Piemonte, Italy
This uncommon mineral, first described from here (the TYPE locality) in
1994, has not seen much distribution due to its scarcity. We recently
obtained a few samples of minute, glassy bluish aggregates of the mineral,
sparsely scattered in a rose-colored quartzite with small, micro pods
of deep red pyrope garnet. From Brossasco, Vallone Giba in the Varaita
Valley, part of the overly simplified Dora-Maira massif type locality
designation. Specimens (all with arrows) average about 2.5cm to 3.5cm
@ 55.00 and 65.00 each. Only a few available!
PLUMBOAGARDITE- Niederschlag, Erzgebirge, Saxony, Germany
This prolific locality has produced many micro species, and the plumboagardite
was found here in 1989, predating the material from the type locality
elsewhere in Germany, but it was only confirmed this past year by EDX
and XRD. It occurs as minute, pale green fibrous aggregates sparsely scattered
in vugs, typically with fluorite, quartz and other species. Priced according
to quality, specimens range from about 1.2cm to 2.5cm @ 30.00 and 45.00,
and a couple at 65.00 each.
RHODOCHROSITE- Wudong Mine, Wushuo, Guangxi Zhuang PR China
From an exciting new find, deep pink, translucent to opaque rhombs and
aggregates of rhodochrosite richly scattered on matrix, some with minor
pyrite, quartz, sphalerite etc. Very colorful stuff, matrix specimens
about 4cm to 5cm across @ 60.00 and 75.00 each. Nice!
RINMANITE- Garpenberg Norra Mine, Hedemora, Sweden
Described in 2000, this exceptionally rare mineral occurs as extremely
small, black elongated submetallic aggregates sparsely scattered in matrix.
TYPE locality material, the first we have been able to obtain, offered
as 5mm specimens @ just 85.00 each. Rare!
RUTILE- Parkesburg, Chester Co., Pennsylvania
From this old eastern U.S. locality, we have a few small (1.5cm) stout
rutile prisms as crystal sections without matrix. The locality, in Sadsbury
Township, was mentioned in Gordon's 1922 classic on Pennsylvania mineralogy.
Good locality reference specimens in thumbnail sizes at just 15.00 each.
SELLAITE- Fontsante Mine, Var, France
Rather rich, white masses of sellatite largely comprising matrix, occasionally
with admixed fluorite. Old BRGM material obtained many years ago, size
range from about 2cm to nearly 5cm across @ 15.00, 30.00 and 45.00.
SHLYKOVITE- Tsentral'nyi Mine, Rasvumchorr Mt., Russia
Another NEW SPECIES from Khibiny, occurring as minute scaly lamellae to
0.5mm and as thinly fibrous aggregates of similar size in veinlets and
cracks, typically greyish white to somewhat beige in color, all showing
a pearly luster, associated with potassic feldspar, eudialyte, alkali
amphibole, ilmenite and a potential host of other possibilities. Formula:
KCa[Si4O9(OH)]*3H2O, monoclinic. IMA #2008-062, a phyllosilicate representing
a new structural type! From the TYPE and only locality, specimens (with
arrows) from about 2cm to 5cm across @ 95.00, 125.00 and 160.00 each!
SMITHSONITE etc..- Sherman Tunnel, Lake Co., Colorado
Complex ore specimens from this famous locality, here with numerous micro
rhombs of grey to brownish smithsonite richly coating vuggy matrix, most
specimens with multiple micro associations that include balls of green
malachite, yellow bindheimite, quartz, barite, azurite, galena etc. A
microscope will yield numerous delightful areas of study on this chaotic
specimens, matrix sizes from 2.5cm to 7cm @ 7.50, 12.50, 20.00 and 35.00
each, all with great micro potential; several considerably larger suitable
as anchors, 50.00 to 85.00 each.
SMOLIANINOVITE ps @ COBALTITE- Mt. Cobalt, Queensland, Australia
Earthy yellow pseudomorphs of smolianinovite @ colbaltite are intergrown
with sparse, fibrous violet erythrite. Both species are scattered across
a contrasting grey matrix. 1-6cm @ 12.50, 25.00, 40.00, 60.00. One fine
16x11cm piece available for 175.00.
STRUVITE- Skipton Bat Caves, Victoria, Australia
This phosphate mineral has formed as a product of (ugh!) guano alteration.
We have them as matrix (guano)-free sharply formed single crystals that
are opaque chalky white and in odd skeletal shapes, likely pseudomorphs
after newburyite or a similar phase, or as small pods in larger dark brown
matrix specimens. Sizes of the singles average about 1cm, individual crystals
@ 12.50; 3cm to 4cm matrix specimens with one or several small pods @
30.00.
SYNCHESITE-Y (DOVERITE)- Scrub Oaks Iron Mine, nr. Dover, New Jersey
Dark brick red masses of synchesite-y richly speckle a matrix of dark
grey magnetite ore on these massive granular samples from the classic
locality for the "doverite" variety. Collected by your's truly
many years ago when residing in Dover! Sizes from 1cm to 5cm @ 8.50, 15.00,
25.00, and 40.00.
TANTALITE-(Mn)- Tin Mountain Mine, Custer Co., South Dakota
Patches of nearly black, crystalline tantalite-(Mn) to 1cm are scattered
in a white, often radiating albite matrix, associated with massive quartz
and tabular, slightly greenish cesium-rich muscovite. Analytically confirmed
(copy supplied) material that sometimes pushes the chemical edges of this
species vs. its columbite counterpart, specimens range from 2.5cm to 6cm
across, priced at just 12.50, 20.00 and 35.00 each.
TELLURITE- Mina Bambollita, Moctezuma, Sonora, Mexico
From old material collected many years ago, we have a good selection of
tellurite specimens from this famous locality, most as small, yellowish
orange, sparse crystalline aggregates lying flat on quartz-rich matrix,
all showing brilliant adamantine luster, occasionally with minor greyish
native tellurium as finely disseminated grains. The locality has produced
many rare Te-rich phases, and who knows what else may lurk in these old
specimens! Sizes range from 2cm to 7cm across, offered at just 10.00,
25.00, 40.00 and 65.00 each.
TRIPUHYITE var FLAJOLOTITE- Djebel Nador, Constantine, Algeria
Rather ugly yellowish, ocherous material now defined as tripuhyite richly
comprising these samples. Relatively pure, powdery masses, possibly with
minor admixed nadorite (type locality for the species), offered as small
masses in a capsule @ just 10.00 each, a few small matrix specimens 1cm
to 1.3cm @ 25.00 each.
TSUMEBITE- Hard Luck Claims, San Bernadino Co. California
This interesting locality has produced more than 50 different species,
many in good micro crystals. We have a small selection of tsumebite specimens
from here, most as pleasing, glassy green micro aggregates scattered on
matrix, typically with cerussite and a wide range of other associated
species. Specimens range from about 2.5cm to 5cm across and are priced
according to quality @ 10.00, 20.00 and 30.00 each. Cool stuff!
WAVELLITE- Mt. Pleasant Mills, Snyder Co., Pennsylvania
From a relatively recent find at the National Limestone Co. Quarry, these
are yellowish green radiating aggregates and balls of wavellite well scattered
on seams and exposed surfaces of a pale, gritty matrix. Typical sizes
range from 3.5cm to 5.5cm @ just 8.00, 15.00 and 20.00, with a few significantly
larger samples available - inquire.
XONOTLITE- Christmas Mine, nr. Hayden, Arizona
Thick white encrustations of xonotlite scattered on diopside-rich matrix,
typically with minor stringhamite or gilaite as well. An unusual locality
for the species, specimens range from 2.5cm to 3cm @ just 15.00 and 20.00
each.
MINE MODELS
CASH MINE WORKS- Park City, Utah
An exquisite, craftsman kit based on the Silver King Ore House constructed
in the early 1900's that subsequently burned down on July 20,1982. The
Silver King Coalition Mining Company's ore tipple is reproduced here,
a major shipper of lead, zinc and silver ore. This is a laser-cut wood
kit with scores of parts, accompanied by a ten page instructional diagram
package. A marvelous 1:87 scale reproduction kit, and the finished model
will measure about 7" x 8.5" x 10.5" tall @ just 139.95
plus shipping! See our website for other available mine kits!
ORE CARS- 1:87 scale
In case you intend to build that mining empire in miniature, you'll need
ore cars, and we have them! These are 1:87 (HO) scale models of standard
22 foot ore cars once used by a variety of railroads to transport heavy
ore from mines to mills and smelters. They require little assemble (trucks
and couplers etc.) and are all prototypically painted in a variety of
road names. These have steel bottoms, styrene bodies and are nicely detailed
at just 10.00 each, or three different for 25.00.
CATALOG 20902 - Volume XXXVI, No.2, Posted Feb.
26, 2009 All items subject to prior sale, FOB our warehouse.
See us at the New York City Gem & Mineral Show, March 7 & 8
@ Holiday Inn, 440 W. 57 St, NYC!
ALIETTITE ps @ WOLLASTONITE- Ingichke, Samarkand District, Uzbekistan
Monomineralic masses of this rare species intimately associated with and
replacing elongated tan aggregates of wollastonite, rarely with minor
garnet. Probe, X-Ray and IR-spectrum were required for ID! Only a few
available, 8mm to nearly 2.5cm @ 55.00, 75.00 and 95.00 each.
ALUMINOCERITE-(Ce)- Afrikanda, Kola Peninsula, Russia
Many specimens from this locality are "ordinary cerite", but
a new discovery this past summer has yielded a few of these analytically
confirmed aluminocerite-(Ce) specimens among the significantly prevailing
cerite-(Ce) with Fe>Al. They form small aggregations to 5mm of pinkish,
coarse tabular crystals, usually in calcite with minor diopside, magnetite
and/or magnesiohastingsite. Formula: (Ce,La,Ca)9(Al,Fe3+)(SiO4)3[SiO3(OH)]4(OH)3
- trigonal. IMA #2007-060 from the second world occurrence! Samples about
1.5cm to 3cm @ 75.00, 100.00 and 125.00 each.
BOBDOWNSITE- Rapid Creek, Yukon Teritory, Canada
This NEW SPECIES occus as clear to white tabular crystalline aggregates
and partial crystals to 1cm across perched in cross-hatching groups on
matrix. Formula: Ca9Mg(PO3F0(PO4)6 - trigonal, IMA #2008-037. Named for
Prof. Bob Downs @ the University of Arizona who first uncovered the mineral
as part of the RRUFF Project. Associations may include arrojadite, quartz,
kulanite etc.. some with micro potential as well! Surprisingly rich, matix
specimens from about 2cm to nearly 4cm across @ just 45.00, 60.00 and
75.00 each, depending on qulaity!
BRITHOLITE-Ce- Oka, Quebec, Canada
Grey masses of pure britholite-Ce are peppered with tabular mica in these
substantially pure samples. Rich material, quite old, specimen sizes from
about 1.5cm to 5cm @ 15.00, 30.00, and 55.00 each.
CALCITE on SPHALERITE- Mid Continent Mine, Treece, Kansas
This is a nice, large, cabinet specimen consisting of a base of coarsely
crystalline (to 2+ cm), dark root beer-colored sphalerite which is in
most areas covered by a large (10+ cm), rounded "blob" of resinous,
amber-colored calcite that presents hundreds of subparallel, composite
faces. This piece literally looks like it was coated by a thick, melted
mass of calcite that crystallized upon cooling. The sphalerite is therefore
only seen around the edges of the specimen and on the fracture-surface
base. The exposed sphalerite crystals have a resinous to sub-metallic
luster and are generously sprinkled with euhedral, though slightly oxidized,
modified tetrahedrons of chalcopyrite (to 3 mm). This piece comes from
the Dana-classic Tri-State (MO, KS, & OK) Pb-Zn district including
Joplin, MO. This is a good chance to buy a virtually damage-free piece
from this old US locality. Specimen is 11x8x4 cm @ 75.00.
CHALCOCITE- Flambeau Mine, Rush Co., Wisconsin
Interesting, dark greyish blue metallic aggregates and crude crystals
of chalcocite completely comprising matrix, these from the well known
find of several years ago, now defunct. Someday these may rival Bristol,
Connecticut specimens in pricing, but for now are still quite reasonable,
with 2.5cm TN's at just 15.00 to 35.00 each, and a few larger samples
to 5cm @ 50.00 to 100.00 each, depending on quality. Get 'em while you
can.
CINNABAR IN SIDERITE- Quarry at Prinz, Steiermark, Austria
Sparse veins and surface coverage of red cinnabar on brown, rhombic siderite
matrix. Ex-E.Wm. Heinrich collection, accompanied by a copy of his label.
Only three available, sizes are from 3cm to 6cm @ 20.00 and 30.00 each.
Excellent, older locality material!
DORALLCHARITE- Allchar, Roszdan, Macedonia
Type locality material, offered here as microprobe-confirmed yellow powdery
aggregates in extremely small masses about 0.2mm across, box-mounted on
a small glass slide. Small and obscure stuff, very rarely offered in confirmed
samples, @ 55.00 each.
EKANITE (TL)- nr. Ratnapura, Sabaragamuwa Prov., Sri Lanka
Small, metamict dark green, glassy transparent aggregates without matrix
from the type locality! These are placer grains and have been checked
by both microprobe and IR spectra, only a few small (1.5mm or so) grains
on hand @ 40.00 each.
ERYTHRITE- Santa Alicia Mine, Alamos, Sonora, Mexico
Rich magenta needles and tufted sprays of erythrite richly scattered on
matrix. From the classic Mexican locality, these are nicely sized and
make good micros as well. Select material, quite attractive, matrix sizes
from 3.5cm to 5.5cm @ 8.50, 15.00 and 25.00 each.
FLUORITE- Fort Wayne, Allen Co., Indiana
Pale citron colored fluorite cubes, some over 1cm on a side, are attractively
perched on grey dolostone matrix. A very pleasing, pale yellowish transparent
fluorite! Neat miniatures from this old locality, sizes from about 3.5cm
to 6cm @ 20.00, 30.00 and 45.00 each.
GINORITE- Chelkar Salt Dome, Aksai Valley, Kazakhstan
Pale yellowish, single tabular crystals and small clusters averaging about
2mm across, obtained from a single drill core sample! Small but from one
of only a very few confirmed localities for this rare borate mineral.
Singles in a small vial @ 25.00 each.
HAWLEYITE (XRD)- Galerie de La Crettaz, Mt. Chemin, Switzerland
This unusual cadmium mineral occurs as thin, bright yellow to greenish-yellow
filmy crusts scattered over matrix consisting of veinlets of sphalerite,
fluorite and possibly other phases. XRD-confirmed, matrix sizes from 2cm
to nearly 4cm @ 20.00, 30.00 and 45.00 each.
HYDROXYL-HERDERITE- Big Chief Mine, Pennington Co., South Dakota
Excellent micro radiating balls of this uncommon species richly scattered
on siderite matrix, occasionally with minor phosphates such as beraunite,
needle-like yellowish strunzite etc.), these from the Weber/Perloff collection
and likely obtained from Bill Roberts many years ago. Excellent micro's,
only three available, @ 65.00 each.
IVANYUKITE-K- Mt. Koashva, Khibiny, Kola Pen., Russia
Another NEW SPECIES from this prolific locality, here as well formed colorless
to white translucent micro cubic crystals typically in the 0.3mm size
range, perched in cavities of natrolite and/or pectolite. Formula: K2[Ti4O2(OH)2(SiO4)3]*9H2O
- isometric. IMA #2007-042, type locality, of course. The rarest of the
three "ivanyukites", matrix specimens range from about 2cm to
nearly 4.5cm @ 95.00, 135.00 and 175.00 each. A 6cm specimen with lucasite-(Ce)
@ 240.00.
IVANYUKITE-Na- Mt. Koashva, Khibiny, Kola Pen., Russia
This NEW SPECIES occurs as numerous, well formed cubic crystals about
0.5mm across, ranging from colorless to a beige, pinkish-orange hue, well
scattered in cavities of natrolite, pectolite and aegirine aggregates,
occasionally with minutely acicular vinogradovite. Formula: Na2[Ti4O2(OH)2(SiO4)3]*6H2O,
isometric. Type locality material, IMA #2007-041, specimens from about
2cm to nearly 5cm across @ 75.00, 100.00 and 150.00 each. Only a few!
JAMBORITE pseudo @ MILLERITE- Ca' dei Ladri, Emilia Romagna Reg. Italy
Old material from this uncommon locality, here as sparsely scattered,
small radiating needles of dark greenish jamborite lying flat in matrix,
likely as pseudos after millerite. Only a few specimens on hand, specimen
sizes from 2cm to 3.5cm @ 20.00, 35.00 and 50.00 each.
JAMESONITE- Sombrerete, Zacatecas, Mexico
Superb, thick metallic rods of stibnite-like crystals of jamesonite nicely
scattered in/on matrix with well crystallized
pyrite. From the original 1975 find, these modern classics are exceptional
for the species, with overall sizes from 3cm to 7.5cm @ 15.00, 25.00 and
40.00.
JULGOLDITE-(Fe2+)- Hale Creek Mine, Trinity Co., California
One of the rarer members of the pumpellyite group, julgoldite-(Fe2+) occurs
as small dark green to black opaque grains scattered in a moderately attractive
pink cr ystalline inesite matrix. Definitely microscope material, each
specimen will probably yield several mounts. In sizes from 2cm to 6cm,
reasonably priced at 10.00, 17.50, 25.00 and 40.00 each.
KAERSUTITE- near Hoover Dam, Mojave Co., Arizona
One of the few titanium bearing amphibole minerals, kaersutite occurs
as greenish black glassy crystals frozen in camptonite rock matrix, with
occasional prism faces evident. Reasonably priced specimens with moderate
coverage, 3cm to nearly 8cm @ 15.00, 20.00, 30.00 and 45.00 each.
KHANNESHITE- Tuliylukht Bay, Khibiny, Kola, Russia
Bright orange, glassy aggregates of this complex carbonate scattered in
seams in matrix. Extremely rare material from an excellent locality. The
small matrix samples we offered over 10 years ago are long gone, but we
have a few single grain sized samples on hand about 1mm across @ just
45.00 each. Only five available, please list alternates!
KHINITE- Aga Mine, San Bernadino Co., California
This obscure lead-producing locality from many years ago has now yielded
only the third locality for khinite, available here as small micro balls
and glassy aggregates of deep green color on massive quartz matrix. Not
much to look at unless relatively high magnification is used, but a rare
copper-lead tellurate mineral nonetheless. Choice material for the locality,
but still small TN's to about 1.5cm @ 55.00 each.
LAZURITE- Andes of Ovalle, Chile
Rich, ultramarine blue masses and spots oflazurite (lapis lazuli) speckle
white to greyish carbonate in these moderately attractive samples. Excellent,
classic locality material, some quite cutable, sizes average 2.5cm to
5cm across @ 20.00, 35.00 and 50.00 each, depending on quality.
LUCASITE-(Ce)- Mt. Koashva, Khibiny, Kola Pen., Russia
A rarely offered REE mineral from one of the few verified world localities
for the species! It occurs here as honey brown to brownish orange spherules
to 0.7mm across, scattered among voids on microcline or aegirine, occasionally
as inclusions in water-clear natrolite. Only a few small TN's on hand
with arrows @ 95.00.
METABORITE (TL)- Chelkar Salt Dome, Kazakhstan
Rarely offered, type locality specimens comprised of small, colorless
single crystals averaging about 1mm across, typically with a corroded
surface, free of matrix. Old, author's material from the type locality,
only a few on hand @ 65.00 each. List alternates!
MIMETITE- Driggeth Mine, Caldbeck Fells, England
From a classic locality in Cumbria, these are medium green, small knobby
botryoids richly scattered on matrix, forming rather attractive and colorful
specimens specimens from this Cumbia occurrence. Purchased more than 25
years ago from Sam Weller, recently uncover ed here, specimens from about
3.5cm to 6.5cm across @ just 15.00, 25.00, 40.00 and 50.00 each. Nice!
MONTICELLITE- Crestmore Quarry, Riverside Co., California
This ubiquitious mineral occurs here as brownish spots and masses well
scattered in pale bluish white calcite matrix. One of the lesser-collected
species from this famous locality, specimens from about 2.5cm to 7cm @
12.50, 20.00 and 35.00 each.
PLUMBOPHYLLITE- Blue Bell Mine, San Bernadino Co., California
This NEW SPECIES occurs as pale blue to very light blue green, translucent
glassy micro radiating sprays lying flat in thin seams in matrix, occasionally
with minor massive opal. Formula: Pb2Si4O10*H2O,- orthorhombic, IMA #
2008-025. Only a few specimens available, sizes from about 1.5cm to nearly
4cm across @ 45.00, 60.00 and 85.00
POLYMIGNITE- Hakestad Mine, Tjolling, Norway
Dark brown elongated crystalline aggregates and crystal sections of this
ill-defined species scattered in feldspar matrix, some with minor biotite,
aegirine and possibly other minerals. Sizes from 2cm to 6cm @ 7.50, 12.50,
20.00 and 30.00.
POTASSICPARGASITE- Pitkyaranta, Karelia, Russia
Found in the old orefield from this former, ex-Finland locality, this
species occurs here as black, coarsley crystalline aggregates scattered
in a skarn matrix. Microprobe-confirmed specimens, but only a few 1.5cm
to 2.5cm sample son hand @ 35.00 and 50.00 each.
QUARTZ- Bullion Mine, Virginia City, Nevada
Interesting specimens of clear to milky white terminated quartz crystals
and points on matrix, all showing good luster and stout habits, most 2cm
or shorter protruding from massive quartz. The Comstock Lode has produced
much silver and such, and these are from a prospector's private stash.
Specimens range from TN's @ just 5.00, then 3.5cm to 8cm @ only 8.50,
15.00 and 25.00 each. Neat, historical locality material!
QUARTZ, TETRAHEDRITE, SPHALERITE- Trepca, Yugoslavia
This ex-Bruce Museum speciman with label shows stubby white translucent
quartz crystals about 1/2 cm wide bearing rounded points along with numerous
smaller grey translucent crystals. Some poorly formed graphite-grey tetrahedrite
crystals intervene along with some clearly visible sphalerite. Interesting
old specimen, size about 7x6cm @ 55.00.
RETGERSITE with MORENOSITE- Nickel Mine, Bolivia, Churchill Co. Nevada
A handful of samples comprised primarily of pale green masses of admixed
morenosite and other secondary nickel minerals with small, thin seams
and masses of pale bluish retgersite as well. Unusual material, specimen
sizes from about 2.5cm to large 13cm samples @ 10.00, 17.50, 25.00, 40.00,
65.00, and 95.00 each.
SERENDIBITE- nr. Johnsburg, Warren Co., New York
Greyish blue to blue masses of this unusual boro-silicate scattered in
matrix, most with diopside and minor phlogopite. From the long-lost 1932
locality described in American Mineralogist and rarely offered, these
were collected many years ago by Dr. Paul Moore. Sizes 1.5cm to 3.5cm
across @ 15.00, 30.00 and 50.00, a few to 6cm @ 100.00, and THE WORLD'S
LARGEST: a boulder of 18x17x17cm, about 20 pounds(!!!), only one @ 1200.00!
TOPAZ- Schneckenstein, Vogtland, Saxony, Germany
A beige 1.6 centimeter long clear to translucent topaz crystal is length-wise
embedded in matrix and surrounded by smaller quartz crystal points up
to 4mm in length. A remarkably well formed crystal, this is a numbered
specimen accompanied by J. Cilen and old Ward's Natural Science labels.
Overall size is 4x4cm @ 85.00.
TRIPHYLITE- North Groton, New Hampshire
These show massive green triphylite with minor arrojadite and possibly
wolfeite intergrown as well. Likely old Palermo material although nit
labeled as such, sizes about 3cm to 6cm across @ 12.50, 20.00 and 30.00
each.
TRIPLITE- Mica Lode Quarry, Fremont Co., Colorado
Thick, dark brown resinous masses of nearly pure triplite comprising matrix,
these from old stock originally supplied by Willard Roberts (robertsite)
many years ago. Specimens range from about 3cm to 7cm across, quite rich,
at just 10.00, 17.50, 25.00 and 40.00 each.
TRONA- Stauffer Mine, Green River, Wyoming
Old material collected by E. Wm. Heinrich, occuring here as honey-colored
crystalline aggregates scattered in a greenish oil shale matrix. Moderately
rich specimens, sizes from about 4cm to nearly 11x8cm across @ 15.00,
30.00, 45.00, 65.00 and 85.00 each.
WEGSCHEIDERITE- Mt. Alluaiv, Lovozero, Kola, Russia
Minute translucent, glassy aggregates of clear to very slightly pinkish
hued wegscheiderite sparsely scattered in minor matrix. A second locality
for this rare mineral, identifed by X-ray diffraction and IR spectroscopy,
the first we have been able to offer in more than a dozen years! Only
a few 2.5mm specimens available, @ 55.00 each.
NEW BOOK
MINERALS of NORTHERN ENGLAND by Symes and Young
This excellent regional work contains over 200 pages of superbly illustrated,
full color images in a handsome and sturdy softcover edition. Excellent
historical treatments, stories of dealers and early miners, plus solid
treatment of the famous minerals and their localities in this rich, productive
area. (For a full review, see Dec. 2008 review in Mineral News). A very
worthwhile addition to your mineral library at just 40.00 plus shipping!
CATALOG 20901 - Volume XXXVI, No.1, Posted January
20, 2009 All items subject to prior sale, FOB our warehouse.
AEGIRINE- Venske Shaft,Ste 23,Stettin,Wausau, Wisconsin
Bars of dark grey-green aegerine crystals embedded in reddish-pink feldspar
matrix. Rather ugly but from an interesting locality, a numbered specimen
accompanied by an E. Wm. Heinrich label. Size is 8x5cm @ 25.00
APATITE-QUARTZ-SIDERITE etc- Panasquiera, Portugal
A classy display specimen consisting of several, elongated and doubly
terminated clear quartz crystals protruding from a dense, zinnwaldite-rich
greenish grey matrix with minor sulfides, with one side of the specimen
covered by hundreds of micro, tan stacked wafers of siderite, the other
side showing several transparent(!!) to greyish, sharply hexagonal apatite
crystals to 6mmm tall as well. A thin vail of fluorescence is evident
at the tips of some of the apatites, close to their exposed pinacoid terminations.
The specimen is ex-Gary Hansen, ex-A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum with labels
from both included, overall specimen size 12x5cm @ 225.00. Excellent!
APTHITALITE var: GLASERITE- Searles Lake, San Bernadino Co., California
This uncommon mineral occurs here as densely intergrown tabular aggregates,
typically colorless to slightly yellowish-grey largely comprising matrix.
From one of teh better know localities for the species, sizes range from
about 1.5cm to nearly 7cm across @ 5.00, 10.00, 20.00, 35.00 and 50.00
each.
AZURITE- Chessy, Lyon, France
A small lot of dark blue azurite specimens from the classic Dana locality!
These are typical wedge-shaped crystals that are intergrown in somewhat
rounded "balls" of nodular azurite, with the wedges and points
protruding from various angles of the specimens. All are ex-Florence Mecke
Collection (circa 1930's?), and only a few avialable averaging about 2cm
across @ 60.00 and 75.00 each. Difficult to find today!
BABINGTONITE- Reading, Middlesex Co., Massachusetts
Uncovered in old Perloff/Weber material, we have a small lot of micro
babingtonite specimens, here as good micro material scattered in feldspar
vugs, some with minor green epidote, all showing excellent luster on their
black, splendant faces! The vintage of these specimens is unknown, but
specimens from old eastern localities are increasingly difficult to locate.
Specimens are priced according to quality, not size, ranging from about
1.5cm to 2.5cm @ just 6.00, 8.50 and 10.00 each.
BISMUTOMICROLITE v WESTGRENITE- Ermo Mine, Carnauba das Dantas, RGN Brazil
Small brownish micro crystals and aggregates of this uncommon mineral
perched among feldspar matrix fissures. Old ex-Julius Weber material labeled
as "westgrenite", matrix sizes average about 1.5cm and nicely
mounted at just 55.00 each.
BONSHTEDTITE- Kukisvumchorr, Khibiny, Kola, Russia
This rare phosphate-carbonate occurs as colorless to lightly tinted fine
grained crystal aggregates scattered on matrix, most associated with pirssonite,
paranatrolite and possibly other species. Excellent locality (actually
from the underground Kirovskii Mine) and fine, representative specimens
(all with arrows for clarity), sizes ranging from 2.5cm to 3.5cm @ 95.00
and 135.00, priced according to quality. Only three available!
BORNITE pseudo @ COVELLITE- Belmont Mine, Butte, Montana
Dark, sooty black bornite replacing blades of covellite, showing minor
pyrite and quartz crystals as well, plus a small smattering of pale green
malachite, too! An old specimen, accompanied by a Hoxie St. Excalibur
label (circa 1974) and recently repatriated from a another collection.
A classic locality piece, overall size 6.5x5.5cm @ 150.00.
CALCIOHILAIRITE- Mt. Flora, Lovozero Massif, Kola, Russia
This rare species occurs here as small but well formed white to buff colored
stout divergent micro crystals sparsely scattered on lujarvite matrix,
some with well formed prismatic crystals of kuzmenkoite-Mn as well. A
new find at the locality for the species with micro potential as well,
matrix sizes from 2cm to 3cm @ just 65.00 each, all with arrows.
CALCITE- Linz on Rhine, Germany
A large single crystal (3cm long, thumb-thickness) with exposed trigonal
point is otherwise encrusted around all sides with a crystallized grey
secondary calcite "ooze" on a light brown matrix with a feint
grey dendritic pattern. Ex-L.L. Hubbard sample (1849-1933) with cardboard
label, overall size is a hefty 10x7cm @ 60.00. Old, old sample!
CARNOTITE- Mauch Chunk, Carbon Co., Pennsylvania
A pair of very old specimens from this classic eastern U.S. locality,
here as dull yellow crusts and films scattered over uraniferous rock matrix.
These are both ex-Lambrecht, ex-Cleveland Museum of Natural History, and
include the Museum's label as well. Sizes are 5x2.5cm @ 55.00 and 8x6cm
@ 125.00. List alternates!
CARYOCHROITE- Umbozero Mine, Alluaiv Mt., Kola, Russia
Another relatively NEW SPECIES from the Lovozero Massif, here as nearly
monomineral masses of this dark brown, nafertisite-like material, some
with long slender embedded elpidite crystals. From the type locality in
the Elpiditivoye pegmatite, formula: (Na,Sr)3(Fe3+,Mg)10[Ti2Si12O37](O,OH)9*8H2O.
IMA #2005-031, author's studied material, rich samples from about 2cm
to 4cm across at 60.00, 75.00, 100.00 and 125.00 each.
CORUNDUM variety RUBY- Los Archipelago, Guinea
This west African nation, formerly French Guinea) has produced much in
the way of diamonds and precious metals, but its outlying islands provide
the most interesting species in the syenites and pegmatites. These corundums
are rather crudely formed bipyramidal crystals without matrix, dark brownish
red in color, some showing basal pinacoids with chatoyant luster, others
with crude pyramidal terminations. Sizes range from about 1cm to 2.5cm,
priced at just 5.00, 8.50 and 12.50 each. Limit three (3) per customer,
please.
COVELLITE- Chandler Tunnel, Summitville, Colorado
A superb. classic specimen from this Rio Grande County locality, comprised
of electric blue, metallic stacked platy crystals and aggregates of covellite
to 2.5cm tall completely forming a dense, attractive group with virtually
no discernable matrix! The specimen was obtained during our purchase of
the Thomas Campbell Collection (co-author of the second edition of the
Encyclopedia of Minerals) many years ago. A handsome specimen and moderately
well crystallized unlike most modern covellite, it measures 7x4.5cm @
250.00. Excellent!
CREASEYITE- Mammoth-St. Anthony, nr. Tiger, Arizona
This relative rare species occurs as sparse, pale green crusty aggregates
and minutely fibrous masses on matrix, some associated with punky micro
wulfenite and other secondary minerals. From the famous Collins Vein,
the TYPE LOCALITY, specimens range from about 2.5cm to 8cm @ 12.50, 20.00,
35.00 and 55.00 each, depending on quality, some with micro potential
as well.
DATOLITE- Cheshire, Connecticut
A multi-layered plate richly covered with small, pale greenish grey datolite
crystals. An unusual eastern locality for this mineral, a numbered specimen
with an adhered old label, provenance unknown. Overall size 9x4.5cm @
60.00. Moderately attractive for the locality!
DIAMOND- Bloemfontein District, Free State, Rep So. Africa
From the old "Orange Free State", aka "Orange River Colony",
these are pale yellow, transparent single crystals, most showing complex
faces seen with some dodecahedral to octahedral habits. Unknown steely-grey
inclusions can also be spotted under magnification on some, and sizes
average about 4x3mm (about 40 points), at just 35.00 each. Only a few
on hand!
DIOPSIDE var: COCCOLITE- Arendal, Aust-Agder, Norway
Massive black granular ferroan diopside (variety coccolite) divided by
several fine hairline planes of a microscopic white material. A hefty
hand-specimen from an excellent older locality. Accompanied by an old
Ralys Mineral Specimens label. Overall size is 8x8x4cm @ just 30.00.
DRAVITE- nr. Salur, Orissa, India
From a relatively new (?) find, we have a small lot of rather stout, very
dark brown, well developed prismatic dravite crystals, here with little
or no matrix, all showing sharply developed prism faces, and they are
all doubly terminated as well! Like the big Australian crystals from Yinnethara,
there are no pronounced prismatic striations commonly seen on many other
tourmalines, and these average about 3.5cm long and nearly as thick at
just 35.00 each.
FERBERITE- Yaogangxian Mine, Chenzhou, Hunan, PR China
Thick, black elongated crystalline aggregates and some singly terminated
flattened crystals comprising matrix, some with minor arsenopyrite, quartz,
dolomite etc. Surprisingly large and relatively inexpensive, we have a
few flattened specimens from 3.5cm to 7cm, priced at just 25.00 and 45.00
each, depending on quality, not size. Attractive and a great deal!
FIZELYITE- Van Silver Claim, nr. Whistler, BC, Canada
Minute elongated silvery grey crystals and aggregates of this unusual
lead-silver-antimony sulfosalt scattered in exposed vugs and seams in
matrix, most associated with minor galena, pyrite, quartz and possibly
other phases. Good micro potential for a moderately rare species, matrix
sizes from about 1cm to 2.2cm @ 15.00, 25.00 and 35.00 each, depending
on quality.
FRANKLINITE- Franklin, Sussex Co., New Jersey
A BIG hunk of a rock, comprised of densely intergrown black octahedral
masses of franklinite, interspersed between thin seams of non-fluorescent
calcite and minor red zincite. The octahedrons are rounded, most are cleaved,
but the major one, a full 6.5cm across from tip to tip (!!!) that protrudes
from the surface makes this a keeper! An old specimen, ex-Ackerman Collection,
weighs over 3.5 pounds and is a monster 11x8cm @ just 85.00. Also useful
as boat anchor and door stop if needed.
GAHNITE variety KREITTONITE- Bodenmais, Zwiesel, Bavaria, Germany
A pair of shiny black gahnite crystals to 8mm embeded in black mica and
quartz. The iron rich variety was well known from this old Bayern (Bavaria)
locality. This is a numbered specimen accompanied by two Michigan College
of Mines labels and an old calligraphic Dr. A. Krantz label. Overall size
is 4.5x3cm @ 40.00.
GALENA in CRYOLITE- Ivigtut, Greenland
Old specimens, ex-E.W. Heinrich Collection, comprised of silvery metallic
aggregates of massive galena scattered through white cryolite matrix,
most with bright, tan-colored siderite cleavages, brassy chalcopyrite
etc. Wonderful examples of this weird ore association from a classic locality,
specimens from about 4cm to 8cm across @ 20.00, 35.00 and 55.00 each.
Only a few!
GEORGECHAOITE + VINOGRADOVITE- Yukspor Mt., Khibiny, Kola, Russia
Excellent micro material for this former one-locality mineral, here as
clusters of well formed colorless vitreous micro crystals scattered in
cavities, all with white fibrous vinogradovite as well. Superb stuff for
this rarity, matrix sizes average about 3cm across @ 85.00 each.
GLAUBERITE- Camp Verde, Yavapai County, Arizona
In addition to the more typically pseudomorphed specimens (gypsum, calcite
etc.as pseudo's after glauberite), we have a small lot of well crystallized
glauberite, here as moderately attractive, greyish wedge-shaped crystals
forming good groups, some reaching 15cm across! Most groups are smaller,
in the 3cm and up range, priced at 5.00, 10.00, 25.00, 50.00, 80.00 and
125.00 each. Nice!
HAUYNE var: BERZELINE- Ariccia, Albano, Rome Province, Italy
This variety of hauyne was described by L.A. Necker in 1831 as the mineral
"berzeline", later designated as hauyne in Dana's 1892 edition.
The mineral occurs as small greyish white crystalline aggregates scattered
in/on nepheline syenite matrix, most showing modest red fluorescence (SW
UV) as well. Very old material garnered from several collections (most
notably Michigan College of Mines), specimens range from about 4cm to
6cm across @ 40.00, 50.00 and 60.00 each, depending on coverage and size.
KYANITE (Black)- Nuovo Ritrovamento, Minas Gerais, Brazil
More than twenty years ago, this material was sold as taramite and was
widely distributed by collectors and dealers as such. Every sample we
have had X-rayed has shown these black, radiating crystals and groups
to be kyanite. Little is known about the purported locality, but these
are rather interesting specimens of divergent, radiating aggregates to
5cm long, forming rather pleasing sprays and groups. Sizes average about
6cm across at just 12.50 each, a few larger to 8+cm @ 30.00. Nice!
MAGNETITE & FELDSPAR & ???- Todtenkopf, Salzburg, Tyrol, Austria
A gemmy 0.5 centimeter feldspar crystal point (mislabeled as apatite on
several labels) and a 1.5 centimeter magnetite octahedral point are perched
on top of a wad of white "Bergleder" (mountain leather) matrix,
possibly palygorskite, sepiolite or ???. From a morbidly named locality,
a rather complex and interesting specimen, accompanied by J. Cilen and
old Hugh A. Ford labels! Overall size is 9.5x8.5cm @ just 85.00
MAGNETITE in GYPSUM- Menahyima, Israel
A rather nondescript specimen showing a smattering of black, micro magnetites
in several seams running through a white, massive gypsum matrix. The magnetite
habit varies from rounded grains to somewhat flattened octahedral crystals,
all quite small. Ex-Weingarten collection, great locality reference specimen,
7x4cm @ just 30.00.
MOURITE- Kyzylsai Deposit, Balkhash, Kazakhstan
From the TYPE LOCALITY, we have three small analyzed samples of this rare
UMoO12(OH)10 mineral, here as 1mm grains in polished probe mounts, accomapnied
by an SEM image and confirming analytical spectra. The first we have been
able to offer, at just 150.00 each. First come, first served!
NAGYAGITE- Sacarimb, (Nagyag), Hunedoara, Romania
Excellent micro crystals of tabular, silvery black nagyagite nestled among
water clear quartz crystals, typically overlaying sphalerite-rich matrix.
Uncovered in the old Weber-Perloff material, perhaps there are other,
rare species lurking here, but with no time to analyze, we will simply
offer them as they are labelled, with matrix sizes ranging from about
1cm to nearly 2cm across, priced according to quality @ 75.00, 95.00 and
120.00 each. Superb micro stuff, nicely mounted and boxed!
NICKELINE- Copper Pass Deposit, N.W.T., Canada
Massive, nearly pure metallic pinkish red cleavages of nickeline, altering
to green annabergite on some surfaces. Neat, heavy stuff, found near the
Great Slave Lake of Canada's Northwest Territories. Superbly rich, select
pieces. Available in sizes from 2.5cm to 6cm @ 7.50, 15.00, 20.00, 35.00
and 50.00 each. A few larger: inquire!
OREBROITE- Sjogruvan Mine, Orebro, Vastmasland Sweden
Another rarity from its TYPE LOCALITY, orebroite occurs here as microscopic,
deep red vitrous aggregates sparsely scattered in matrix. Each of these
has a pinpointing arrow and is temporarily mounted in a telescoping plastic
box, specimens averaging 1cm or so @ 145.00 each. List alternates!
POTASSIC-FERROPARGASITE- Kabuto, Kameyama, Mie Prefecture, Japan
This NEW SPECIES, another of the growing number of amphiboles, occurs
here at the type locality as black, highly lustrous monoclinic aggregates,
appearing as richly scattered small spots in contrasting white matrix.
IMA number 2007-053, only a few on hand, averaging about 6mm to 1.2cm
@ 85.00 and 125.00 each.
QUARTZ (CHALCEDONY) IN OOLITE- State College, Centre Co., Pennsylvania
A strange specimen of quartz (variety chalcedony) replacing calcite in
siliceous oolite! The specimen is a solid, grayish white matrix dispalying
numerous tiny balls and oolitic masses richly scattered throughout, resulting
in a "polka-dot" assemblage. Several old labels are exposed
on one side, some are painted on, while others are old paper labels either
worn off or painted over. This is a numbered specimen accompanied by an
E. Wm. Heinrich label. Overall size is 8x7cm @ just 20.00.
RASTSVETAEVITE- Rasvimchorr Mine, Khibiny, Kola, Russia
A moderately rare mineral from its TYPE LOCALITY, it occurs here as red
vitrous aggregates rather well scattered in matrix, a member of the eudialyte
group. Significantly better than the material we offered some years ago,
these are matrix samples averaging just over 1cm across @ just 125.00
each!
ROQUESITE in CHALCOPYRITE- Akenobe Mine, Oyacho, Yabu Gun, Japan
This rare species occurs here as submicroscopic metallic inclusions in
brassy chalcopyrite matrix, typically with minor quartz and pyrite as
well. A rare chalcopyrite group member with essential indium, old material
from a great locality, specimens from small 5mm fragments @ 30.00 to larger
2cm specimens @ 125.00; one 4x3.5cm specimen @ 450.00!
RUTILE on HEMATITE- Mwinilunga, Zambia
An unusual locality specimen with fairly well developed crystals of deep
red to nearly black rutile to 7mm long well scattered on dark, spendant
hematite matrix. The rutiles are vertically striated with some showing
good terminations, all with brilliant prism faces. Over all size about
4.5cm x 4cm @ 40.00. Only one available!
SABUGALITE- Margnac, Haute Vienne, France
Bright yeloow, platy aggregates and rich crusty masses of brightly fluorescent
sabugalite on matrix, some overlaying minor autunite as well. Classic
locality material, small fragments averaging 0.6cm @ 15.00; lean matrix
specimens from 2cm to 4cm @ 60.00, 80.00 and 100.00.
SATIMOLITE- Satimola-Salistock, Kazakhstan
Snow-white rounded masses and aggregates of satimolite to several millimeters
scattered in clay-polyhalite rock matrix. Holotype material from the author,
available as small fragments from 0.5 to 1.2cm @ 40.00, 55.00 and 75.00,
or as a few 2cm to 3cm better matrix samples @ 100.00 and 150.00 each.
SCHUETTEITE- Oceanic Mine, San Luis Obispo Co., California
Canary-yellow, earthy masses of this rare secondary mercury mineral intergrown
in brick-red cinnabar/clay matrix, possibly with other, non-descript secondary
mercury minerals. Old, type locality material, only a few specimens available,
sizes from 2cm to 5.5cm @ 15.00, 25.00, 45.00 and 60.00 each.
TAMARUGITE- Volcano, Lipari Isl., ITALY
This uncommon mineral occurs here as minute, colorless white masses and
fibrous aggregates and densely packed masses, occasionally with intergrown
natroalunite comprising matrix. Old Cureton material, quite rich, as masses
from 1.5cm to 4cm @ 15.00, 25.00 and 40.00 each.
THOMSONITE with CALCITE- Loanhead Quarry, Beith, Scotland
Thomsonite occurs here as thickly intergrown radiating sprays penetrating
into white, crudely crystallized calcite. A neat thumbnail specimen from
an excellent locality, overall size 3x3cm @ just 28.00.
TOPAZ- Brewer Gold Mine, Chesterfield Co., South Carolina
An large crude crystal of cherty microcrystalline topaz from a "wall
rock alteration of a gold vein" with several natural faces and one
cut face. A very odd, microcrystalline specimen, appearing more like a
cherty pseudomorph than an unaltered topaz! A numbered specimen accompanied
by an E. William Heinrich label. Overall size is 10x8cm @ only 45.00.
TUMCHAITE- Neskevaara Hill, Vuoriyarvi Massif, Russia
This rare member of the laplandite group is offered here as tiny single
grains under 1mm on boxed stubs. The material is from the TYPE LOCALITY
in the northern Karelia, of course, and only two of these great rarities
are avaialble at 165.00 each. List alternates!
TUSIONITE- Tusion River, Shakhdara, SW Pamir, Tadjikistan
A rare Mn-Sn-borate, these samples are small single grains carefully mounted
and boxed, here from the TYPE LOCALITY for the mineral. We have only a
few of these to offer, each at the very reasonable price of just 75.00!
TYROLITE- Majuba Hill, Pershing Co., Nevada
From an old find, we have a small lot of interesting tyrolite specimens,
occurring here as pale blue aggregates and flattened radiating sprays
lightly scattered on vuggy quartz/copper ore matrix. A variety of micro
"finds" are possible here as potential associations are prolific
at the locality. Specimen sizes range from about 2cm to 5cm across, offered
at just 8.50, 15.00, 25.00 and 35.00 each, depending on coverage. Excellent
locality material!
WITHERITE- Alston Moor, Cumberland, England, United Kingdom
Witherite from the type locality! The specimen is fairly large and comprised
primarily of massive witherite, with several vugs, one to two centimeters
wide, filled with small clear platy crystals. A numbered specimen accompanied
by two Michigan College of Mines labels & Ward & Howell label.
Overall size 9x8x5cm @ 65.00.
WULFENITE- Carinthia, Austria
Thin tabular buttery yellow-white wulfenite crystals richly distributed
in a cement-like matrix. This is a numbered specimen accompanied by J.
Cilen and John E. MacDonald labels. From original find at Carinthia, Austria,
ex-Lord Calvert Collection. Baron Franz Xavier von Wulfen described this
mineral 1785. Not in pristine condition as is typical for old reference
specimens, but from the classic locality for the mineral! Overall size
is 4.5x4.5cm @ 55.00.
ZIRCONALITE-2M- Afrikanda Pegmatite, Kola Penin., Russia
Small sub-metallic brownish black platy mm-sized crystals and masses of
the 2M polymorph of zirconolite, from the type locality for the species,
scattered in a matrix of calcite-amphibole-diopside rock, some with minor
yellow titanite
as well. These have been identified by a prominent Russian mineralogist,
each with an arrow. Sizes averaging 2.5-3.5cm @ 40.00 and 65.00 each.
Only a few on hand; list alternates!
COLLECTIONS:
JANUARY MYSTERY FLAT - Various localities Worldwide
Once a month, we'll offer a "mystery flat" of twenty (20) different
specimens from worldwide localities, all individually labeled and ranging
in size from 4cm to 7cm across for the princely sum of just $125 plus
shipping. These are from old collections, excess stock, single specimens
and material available only in small quantities too labor intensive to
describe and catalog. Some will be colorful, some will be ugly, some will
have micro potential, some from obscure localities, but the lot will be
worth a minimum of $250 or more, yours sight-unseen for our liquidation
price of just $125 plus shipping! Multiple orders up to three sets (60
specimens) received at the same time will not have duplicates! A bargain
for anyone wishing to expand their collection horizons! Try one!
CATALOG 20808 - Volume XXXV, No.8, Posted December
11, 2008 All items subject to prior sale, FOB our warehouse.
ADAMITE var. CUPROADAMITE- San Rafael Mine, Lodi District, Nevada
Some superb, pale green micro cuprian adamite specimens showing excellent
radiating stacked prismatic crystals in seams and vugs and on matrix,
appearing almost botryoidal in hand specimen, but revealing truly delicious
micro groups and "flowers" when viewed under the 'scope! From
old stuff uncovered here in the warehouse, attractive specimens with moderately
good coverage from about 2.5cm to 7cm across @ 8.50, 15.00, 25.00 and
40.00; nice!
AMBLYGONITE- Vernerov, Bohemia, Czech Republic
Creamy white massive amblygonite, associated with quartz and comprising
most of the matrix in these rich specimens. Nice quality representative
material for this lithium aluminum phosphate from an uncommon locality.
In sizes from 2.5cm to 7cm at just 8.50, 15.00, 25.00 and 40.00 each.
ANATASE- Lot Mine, Gunnison Co., Colorado
Although this material is from the finest Colorado occurrence of the mineral,
the anatase here appears as vein-filling aggregates, typically on the
surface of exposed joint planes in a dioritic dike. The material is bluish-black,
fairly abundant, but not in well developed crystals, rather as dense aggregates
and flattened masses richly scattered on matrix. Very old material collected
in the early 1960's by Ted Morley, rather ugly specimens ranging from
about 4cm to 10 cm across @ 10.00, 20.00, 35.00 and 55.00 each. Excellent
locality reference material!
ANORTHOCLASE- Wausau, Marathon Co., Wisconsin
From specimens collected many years ago by noted geologist E.W. Heinrich,
we have a small lot of greyish, vitreous anorthoclase largely comprising
matrix, these from an admixed quartz-syenite pegmatite from this well
known area. Specimens range from about 2.5cm up to nearly 7cm across at
just 5.00, 10.00, 20.00 and 35.00 ea.
ARMSTRONGITE- Khan-Bogdinskii Massif, Gobi Desert Mongolia
Brownish masses and aggregates of this rare Ca-Zr silicate scattered in
granite pegmatite matrix, associated with feldspar, quartz, aegirine etc.Type
locality material, named for astronaut Neil Armstrong, the first man to
walk on the Moon, specimens from 2.5cm to 10cm @ 25.00, 50.00, 65.00,
100.00 and 150.00 each.
BARIOMICROLITE- Pontal District, Gov. Valadares, Brazil
Ugly material confirmed by microprobe analysis! Bariomicrolite occurs
as white to yellowish radiating masses rimming a black submetallic tantalite-series
mineral. In sizes from 0.4cm to 1.3cm @ 20.00, 35.00 and 50.00 each.
BARITE- Hot Creek Valley, Nye Co., Nevada
Strange barite crystals, somewhat rhombohedral is aspect, resembling the
Hecla-Rosebud material from many years ago! These are dull greyish to
slightly yellowish single crystals and groups, some of the larger singles
reaching 5cm on edge! Weird, not especially attractive, but a very odd
habit for the mineral, specimens from about 2cm to 6cm across @ just 8.50,
15.00, 35.00 and 60.00 for the largest singles.
BELOVITE-(CE)- Malyi Punkaruaiv Mt., Lovozero, Russia
This uncommon species occurs here as tiny, vitreous yellowish grains and
columnar aggregates sparsely scattered in ussingite-rich/syenite matrix.
Only a few analytically confirmed specimens on hand, sizes averaging about
2.5cm or slightly larger @ just 40.00 each. Type locality specimens!
CELESTINE- Yate, Gloucestershire, England
An old lot of classic English celestine, here as crude, grayish white
tabular crystals to a centimeter or more perched on a thick, 3cm+ seam
of massive celestine sitting atop brownish quartzite matrix. These are
typical reference specimens, extraordinarily heavy as might be expected
for a strontium-rich mineral, with specimen sizes ranging from 5cm to
10cm (!!) across @ just 25.00, 40.00 and 75.00 each. List alternates!
CHABAZITE- Espalion, Aveyron, France
Small, clear chabazite crystals in a vug about 3cm wide of a porous green-grey
matrix. Undoubtably hundreds of micros are here, and the specimen is accompanied
by a Seaman Mineral Museum label from Michigan Technological University.
Superb older locality, overall size 8x5cm @ just 55.00.
CLINOATACAMITE- Churchill Butte, Lyon Co., Nevada
From old material uncovered in the warehouse, recent FTIR work on this
species has disclosed that material from this locality is clinoatacamite,
a fairly rare secondary copper mineral! Only three specimens on hand,
all showing brilliant green, micro radiating crystal aggregates sparsely
scattered on tough rock matrix. Specimens average about 6cm across @ 55.00
each, all with moderately good micro potential.
DEFERNITE- Kombat Mine, Otavi, Namibia
Rich specimens of deep red to brown, almost sub-metallic luster, platy
defernite in a black manganite/hausmannite matrix. Quite different in
appearance from the type locality material, this defernite is passably
attractive! A moderately unusual species, matrix from 1cm to nearly 4cm
@ 20.00, 40.00 and 60.00 each.
DESAUTELSITE- Union Carbide Mine, San Benito, California
Orange, minutely platy aggregates of desautelsite thinly encrust areas
of a serpentine matrix. Some samples have minor white fibrous tufts of
artinite, and each comes with a photocopy of a locality label signed by
the late Paul Desautels. Sizes are 2.5cm to nearly 6cm @ 15.00, 25.00,
and 40.00 each.
DIAMOND- Murfreesboro, Arkansas
From specimens collected by the locally famous James Archer at the Crater
of Diamonds State Park, we have a small selection of these rare Arkansas
diamonds obtained at auction, offered here as single crystals without
matrix, typically from 1mm to 3mm in size, weighing from about 2 points
to 25 points, priced according to overall size and weight at 25.00, 40.00,
60.00, 85.00, 100.00, 150.00, and 300.00 each. Tough to get legitimate
specimens from this locality, and priced here at significantly less than
seen elsewhere!
DOLOMITE- Livingston Quarry, LA Co., California
Several large crusty cakes of sandy brown-white dolomite crystals on matrix.
Some of the pieces are capped with tiny transparent doubly-terminated
quartz crystals up to several millimeters in size, while others have large
disoriented platy crystals to 1.5 centimeters wide with slight saddle-shaped
terminations. Pieces ranging in size from 9cm to 13cm very reasonably
priced @ 10.00, 15.00 and 25.00 each.
DRAVITE (Ca-rich)- Badilla, Central Province, Sri Lanka
Flattened single crystals of disk-like dravite without matrix, all showing
relatively sharp, lustrous terminal faces with only very small, striated
prismatic forms evident! A rich, deep brownish black, analytically confirmed
as calcium-rich dravite from this off-beat locality. Specimens average
about 1.5cm across @ just 25.00 each. One slightly larger and broader
@ 55.00. Neat!
ELBAITE var: INDICOLITE- Sapo Mine, Goiabeira, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Good thumbnails of bicolored (clear to greenish-blue) tourmaline crystals
without matrix, each showing subtle color zoning in attractive, transparent
to translucent single crystals. Only a few of these were uncovered, and
have a few boxed specimens at just 20.00 and 30.00 each.
EPISTILBITE- Puu o Ehu Quarry, Oahu, Hawaii
Perhaps the finest micro epistilbites ever reported, these are perfectly
water-clear, columnar single crystals and groups to several millimeters
tall standing upright in vugs of a brownish vesicular basalt. Ex-Julius
Weber specimens in his labeled micro boxes, from an unusual locality that
is completely gone now! Only four choice mounts available @ 35.00 each.
Superb!
GOETHITE pseudo @ PYRITE- Prince of Wales Island, Alaska
A nice selection of single crystals of dark brown, solid goethite that
have replaced euhedral pyrite crystals without matrix. Similar to the
Pelican Point material, these show excellent crystal forms of pyritohedrons,
cubes, and possibly other forms. From a neat locality, we offer a pair
of different crystals 1cm to 1.4cm @ only 15.00 a pair!
GOLD in BARITE- La Reina decline, El Indio, Elqui, Chile
From a small lot recently uncovered in the warehouse, these are greyish
white, somewhat translucent masses of dense, cleavable barite, all with
tiny, spongy masses of brilliant native gold sparsely scattered therein.
Most will be visible at 10x,and we have laboriously attached a red arrow
to each sample to pinpoint the gold. From a mineralogically diverse locality
well known for tellurium minerals, these matrix samples of gold range
from 1.5cm to 3cm across @ just 12.50, 20.00 and 35.00 each; one 5cm specimen
@ 75.00. List alternates!
KYANOXALITE- Mt. Karnasurt, Lovozero, Kola, Russia
This NEW SPECIES occurs as colorless to pale bluish anhedral, isometric
to prismatic grains to 2mm, typically in tiny veinlets between nepheline
grains or as replacement rims surrounding sodalite-nosean masses in matrix.
Additional associations include aegirine, albite, natrolite, fluorapatite
(aka the ridiculous apatite (CaF) for you nitpickers) and murmanite. Formula:
Na7(Al6-5si6-7O24) (C2O4)0.5-1*5H2O - hexagonal, IMA #2008-041. This is
a new member of the cancrinite group with essential and predominant oxalate
anion! Specimens range from about 2cm to nearly 5cm across @ 100.00, 130.00
and 165.00 each, depending on size and richness.
LAIHUNITE- Kamitaga, Atami, Shizuoka, Japan
This rare mineral occurs here as minute brownish black stubby aggregates
sparsely scattered in white, sugary rock matrix. An uncommon olivine group
mineral offered as small reference specimens, overall matrix sizes ranging
from about 0.7cm to 1.5cm @ 20.00, 35.00 and 50.00 each.
LANTHANITE-(Nd)- Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
Glossy flattened aggregates of pinkish platy lanthanite-(Nd) with tan
mudstone matrix. Excellent locality material from small pure fragments
in capsule @ 15.00, and matrix pieces from 0.5cm to nearly 2cm @ 20.00,
30.00 and 40.00 each, depending on size and richness.
MIMETITE- Tsumeb, Namibia
Small yellowish brown needle-like hexagonal crystals of mimetite well-scattered
on matrix, associated with white dolomite rhombs. Ex-Pala Properties specimen
with a large Julius Weber Collection exchange label incorrectly identifying
the dolomite as smithsonite which we did not see on the sample. A moderately
old piece from the classic locality, overall size is 5x5cm @ 150.00.
MONAZITE-(La)- Lepkhe-Nelm, Lovozero, Kola, Russia
From the type locality for the species, moazite-(La) occurs here as tiny,
somewhat waxy tan to yellowish orange aggregates sparsely scattered in
matrix. Analytical work shows approximately 33% La2O3, far above the typical
monazite concentrations found in the Ce-dominant phase. Only a few specimens
available, all with arrows, averaging 2.5cm across @ just 55.00 each.
Impossible to get today!
ONEILLITE- Poudrette Quarry, Mont St-Hilaire, Canada
This complex silicate occurs here as vitreous, golden yellow aggregates
and pods scattered in white feldspar matrix. Type locality material, but
otherwise rather nondescript and unimpressive to look at. Moderately rich,
specimens average about 1cm @ just 65.00 each.
PARAGONITE- Gassetts, Windsor Co., Vermont
This mica group mineral occurs as highly reflective, silvery platy aggregates
largely comprising matrix, some with minor garnet inclusions and possibly
other minerals. Rich samples from an uncommon locality, specimens range
from 2.5cm to nearly 8cm across @ 7.50, 12.50, 20.00 and 30.00 each.
POTASSIUM ALUM- Silver Peak, nr. Alum, Esmeralda Co Nevada
Excellent, pure columnar masses of colorless, transparent, ice-like potassium
alum with little or no matrix. XRD-confirmed material, fine vitreous masses
from 3cm up to exceptional 9cm cabinet specimens, priced @ only 5.00,
10.00, 20.00, and 35.00 each.
QUARTZ variety AMETHYST- Recsk, Hungary
A large hand specimen of translucent lilac colored amethyst quartz crystals
as large as 1cm long and 5mm wide lining the pocket of a 'purse' of milky
grey-white massive quartz. A rare locality and surprisingly well crystallized
for teh occurrence. Overall size 10x9cm @ only 45.00.
REDGILLITE- Grube Schone Aussicht, Burbach, Germany
This relatively new copper mineral (2005) has been found at numerous localities,
and here it occurs as tiny, pale greenish aggregates, associated with
rather better micro langite, cerussite and possibly other copper minerals.
Only a few small samples on hand, all with arrows, specimens 1cm to 2cm
@ 35.00 and 50.00 each.
RHENIITE- Kudryaviy Volcano, Iturup Island, Russia
This now-approved rhenium sulfide mineral occurs as minute silvery-black
to deep red (in thin section) masses scattered on minor matrix. Submitted
to the IMA some years ago but subsequently rejected due to conflicting
data, we have analyzed the material here and shown it to be a legitimate
ReS2 phase. Its official status was approved in 2004 after much confusion!
A small fragment in a vial, accompanied by a copy of our chemical analysis
@ 55.00.
ROSASITE- San Rafael Mine, Lodi District, Nevada
From the same old crate the adamites were unpacked from, we have a few
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