Goethite - unusual locality, Chinese
stock #7.AE-486
Nanping, Hechi prefecture
Guangxi Province,
China
16.7 x 10.4 x 8.3 CM (cabinet)
price: $440
Spring 23
Large cabinet sized cluster of stalactitic Goethite in a sculptural three dimensional array. In very good condition, this looks fine on all sides, there is a noticeable iridescence in some places and a matte sheen overall. This is an early specimen found over 20 years ago in one of the early waves of Chinese minerals to be exported. Unusual esthetics and presentation. There is nothing like this now in the Chinese mineral market.
A very well-formed example of Hematite crystals on a Smokey Quartz prism. The Quartz is unusual in that it is doubly terminated and in very good condition. The "Ongeite" is noted inside the Quartz and is not considered a valid specie. In much better condition and distinct form that we usually see, this is from an older Northeast collection listed only as "Onegite" obtained from the famed Lazard Cahn (no label however) in the early 20th century. A distinctive and classic American specimen these are unlike anything else from any other locality. A few areas of the Quartz have red staining that is also typical of this region.
Is this a Colorado Gwindel? A radiating ball of Goethite crystals sits on a single flattened Quartz crystal composed of several parallel growths that have a pronounced twist. The form is "Gwindel-like" but as the back side is less twisted I am not certain if this can be classified as one. I have asked some Quartz experts and they are divided mostly because the crystal tappers to a wedge like form and is thus not fully typical. Whatever it can be classified as, it is unusual and a Colorado classic locality piece. This was broken and repaired many years ago (it was in a collection by the 1930's) and it is visible on both sides (more so in the back). There is some chipping and damage to the Goethites, but it overall is in good condition.
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