One of the mineral world's great classic pseudomorphs are the hexagonal Pyromorphite crystals from Kautenbach that are replaced by Galena. These are all very old, vintage specimen most having been collected more than 150 years ago. These are also usually quite expensive and not many are seen in thumbnail size. This is a much more affordable specimen than any we have ever seen offered. We must note this is small and not super perfect, there are some edge chips and rough spots but it does show the desirable form and habit of this venerable mine. A good opportunity to have a fair example of this classic for an unusually good price.
Galena Ps. Pyromorphite - classic
stock #13.1-412
Kautenbach, Traben-Trarbach, Hunsruck
Rhineland-Palatinate,
Germany
7.1 x 6.2 x 4.6 CM (cabinet)
price: $650
Late Summer 2018
One of the most respected European classics are the Pyromorphites that were pseudomorphed by Galena from Kautenbach. This specimen has very sharp and distinct hexagonal crystals that in some cases are fully pseudomorphed to Galena and a few have a later regrowth of an outer layer of Pyromorphite. The crystals are well exposed and stand up above the matrix. Very clean damage wise, the crystals on this specimen are small but much more distinct than usual from this classic locale. Ex Seaman museum, most specimens of this sort we have handled had larger crystals but also far larger price tags, usually in the 4-8K range. This is a good example of this treasured classic that is affordable but still choice.
Galena Pseudo after Pyromorphite -Classic locale
stock #0241-JM-331A
Wheal Hope, Perranzabuloe, St. Agnes District
Cornwall,
England
2.8 x 2.3 x 1.5 CM (thumbnail)
price: $330
Worldwide mix summer
Classic Cornish thumbnail specimen of the very desirable Galena after Pyromorphite crystals from Wheal Hope. Small but distinct crystals of Pyromorphite have full changed to Galena but the form remains. Ex John Marshall collection, obtained by him before 1970. These Pseudomorphs are only known from a few spots in the world and all seem to have been found over a century ago. These are especially uncommon from Cornwall, and while to many people are just black and ugly, they are a prize to those who understand these things!
