Natural History Auction JA N U A RY 1 8 , 2 0 0 9 | Da l l a s , T e x a s
Heritage Signature® Auction #6012
Natural History January 18, 2009 | Dallas, Texas
LOT VIEWING Heritage Auction Galleries, 17th Floor 3500 Maple Avenue • Dallas, Texas 75219
LIVE AUCTION Signature® Floor Session 1
Thursday, January 15 - Saturday, January 17, 2009 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM CT
Heritage Auction Galleries, 1st Floor Auction Room 3500 Maple Avenue • Dallas, Texas 75219
Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM CT
Session 1 Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT • Lots 41001–41343
(Floor, Telephone, HERITAGE Live!,™ Internet, Fax, and Mail)
View Lots and Video Lot descriptions online at HA.com/ NaturalHistory lIVE floor BIDDING Bid in person during the floor sessions.
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Lots are sold at an approximate rate of 70 lots per hour, but it is not uncommon to sell 50 lots or 90 lots in any given hour. This auction is subject to a 19.5% Buyer’s Premium. TX Auctioneer licenses: Samuel Foose 11727; Robert Korver 13754; Scott Peterson 13256; Bob Merrill 13408; Mike Sadler 16129; Ed Griffith 16343; Andrea Voss 16406; Jacob Walker 16413; Charlie Mead 16418; Eric Thomas 16421; Douglas Nyholm 16431; Patricia Gardner 16446. Associate 16142 Kathleen Guzman under sponsorship of Andrea Voss 16406.
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F O R TO L L - F R E E D I R E C T C L I E N T S E R V I C E , C A L L 866 - 835 - 3243
11-17-08
table of contents The Daniel Trinchillo Sr. Collection of Minerals.....41001 – 41073
VARIOUS OTHER OWNERS Minerals................................................................41074 – 41168 Gems.....................................................................41169 – 41188 Lapidary Art...........................................................41189 – 41220 Meteorites.............................................................41221 – 41254 Paleolithic Artifacts................................................41255 – 41262 Zoology.................................................................41263 – 41276
FOSSILS Amber & Copal.....................................................41277 – 41287 Paleobotany...........................................................41288 – 41289 Mammals..............................................................41290 – 41294 Fish.......................................................................41295 – 41304 Amphibians & Reptiles..........................................41305 – 41309 Echinoderms..........................................................41310 – 41311 Arthropods............................................................41312 – 41314 Cepholopoda.........................................................41315 – 41322 Dinosauria.............................................................41323 – 41343
FLOOR, TELEPHONE, HERITAGE Live!TM, Internet, FAX, and mail SIGNATURE® Auction #6012 • Dallas, Texas SUNday, January 18, 2009, 1:00 PM CT • Lots 41001-41343 A 19.5% Buyer's Premium Will Be Added To All Lots. Visit HA.com to view scalable images and bid online.
THE DANIEL TRINCHILLO SR. COLLECTION OF FINE MINERALS This section represents the second half of the Daniel Trinchillo Sr. mineral collection – the first half of the collection having been successfully auctioned by Heritage on September 28, 2008. Daniel Trinchillo Sr. has been an avid collector of fine mineral specimens for more than 20 years. He always felt that “it’s not the price; it’s the fact that each specimen is one-of-akind.” In this section you will find more natural treasures that reflect his passion for aesthetics – almost all of which have no reserves. There are old classics, new ‘destined-to-be-classics’, unusual forms, and sometimes just exquisite examples. He is thrilled that specimens that he has enjoyed will be going to those who share his enthusiasm for aesthetic minerals.
41001 “HERKIMER DIAMOND” QUARTZ GROUP — THE “POODLE” Herkimer Co., New York, USA This Herkimer “diamond” Quartz group was nicknamed the “Poodle” for obvious reasons. It is in excellent condition with an enhydro that has a large bubble visible in the trapped fluid. With Anthraconite inclusions, this very large specimen is sharp with virtually no damage. Overall measurements are 3¼ x 4¾ x 4½ inches with the largest crystal measuring 1½ inches on edge. Custom labeled base. Estimate: $500-$800
41002 “HERKIMER DIAMOND” QUARTZ ON MATRIX Herkimer Co., New York, USA Multiple Quartz group of bright, sharp, colorless Herkimer “diamonds” on matrix. Minor nicking to one edge, otherwise fine. The largest crystal is ⅝ inches long and the overall measurements are 2⅛ x 3⅝ x 2⅝ inches. Has custom labeled base. Ex George Feist collection. Estimate: $300-$400
41003 “HERKIMER DIAMOND” QUARTZ ON MATRIX Herkimer Co., New York, USA Group of lustrous, water clear “Herkimer Diamond” Quartz prisms perched on a smoky “Herkimer Diamond” matrix. The exceptionally large “Herkimers” are in excellent condition. Overall specimen measures 2½ x 3¾ x 1⅞ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $750-$850
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41004 “HERKIMER DIAMOND” QUARTZ ON MATRIX Herkimer Co., New York, USA Large, colorless, single “Herkimer Diamond” Quartz crystal on matrix. The Quartz is very bright and lustrous with very minor nicking to termination otherwise in very fine condition. Overall measurements are 3 x 3 x 3⅜ inches and it has a custom labeled base. Ex George Feist collection. Estimate: $800-$1000
41005 “HERKIMER DIAMOND” QUARTZ ON MATRIX — THE “BUNNY” Herkimer Co., New York, USA “The Bunny” resembles a rhinestone rabbit except that it was created by nature and not Van Cleef & Arpels. Colorless, water clear “Herkimer Diamond” Quartz crystals dust the entire surface of a dark smoky Quartz matrix. The effect is scintillating and the specimen sparkles from every direction. There are four minor repairs due to the fracturing of the original rock but it is in fine condition otherwise. The overall “Bunny” measures 6½ x 9 x 2⅞ inches – quite sizable for a Herkimer specimen and it stands on a custom labeled base. Estimate: $1500-$2000
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41006 QUARTZ WITH AMETHYST PHANTOM Goboboseb Mountains, Brandberg area, Brandberg District, Erongo Region, Namibia Very glassy, water clear Quartz prism with vivid Amethyst phantom, it has a colorless termination and is smoky towards the base. Sharp and clean, with some negative crystals, this fine Amethyst is an excellent specimen that measures ¾ x 1 x 2¾ inches and sits upright in a custom labeled stand. Estimate: $200-$300
41007 COLLECTION OF 4 DENNY MOUNTAIN QUARTZ SPECIMENS Denny Mountain, King Co., Washington, USA The difficulties in reaching this collecting site and finding any specimens at all is legendary, reinforcing the rarity of this lot of Denny Mountain specimens. There are two scepters and two prisms, all with the distinctive “needle” inclusions that give them their signature raspberry-red colorations as well as authenticating them as being from the treacherous cliffs of fabled Denny Mountain. All specimens are complete, in fine to excellent condition, and have custom bases. The scepters measure ⅞ x ⅞ x 2⅜ inches and ⅜ x ⅝ x 1½ inches respectively, while the single prisms measure ½ x ½ x 1⅜ inches and ⅝ x ¾ x 1⅞ inches respectively. Estimate: $500-$800
41008 WATER-CLEAR FADEN QUARTZ Dara Ismael, Khan District, Waziristan, Northwest Frontier Province, Pakistan Flat, tabular “faden” Quartz, very sharp and very clean with no damage. Perched on a Quartz matrix, in excellent condition. Overall specimen measurements are 1½ x 2 x ⅜ inches and it sits in a custom labeled acrylic base. Estimate: $800-$1000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41009 QUARTZ STALACTITES Artigas, Artigas Department, Uruguay Three Quartz stalactites standing upright on matrix. They have colorless to grey body color and are covered with bright druzy Quartz crystals. The largest of the three has a very complex and unusual growth habit. In fine, undamaged condition and measuring 2⅛ x 2½ x 3¾ inches. Custom labeled base. Estimate: $250-$350
41010 COLLECTION OF 6 QUARTZ WITH INCLUSIONS/PHANTOMS FROM RUSSIA & CHINA Dal’negorsk, Primorskiy Kray, Far-Eastern Region, Russia and Yaogangxian Mine, Yizhang Co., Chenzhou Prefecture, Hunan Province, China Six unusual Quartz specimens each with inclusions or phantoms from Russia and China; all are in fine condition with custom bases. One Quartz has Bismuthinite inclusions, two have Boulangerite inclusions, and the other three have either internal phantoms or negative crystals with bubbles. All of these Quartz crystals are miniature specimens or slightly larger, as they range in length from 2 inches to as long as 2¾ inches. Estimate: $750-$1000
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41011 QUARTZ Collier Creek Mine, Mt Ida, Montgomery Co., Arkansas, USA A radiating group of Quartz crystals with cream colored basal and matrix sections grading seamlessly into colorless transparent prisms with glassy luster. There is a minor amount of chips and nicks, but otherwise is in fine condition. Overall measurements are 16 inches long x 11 inches wide x 8 inches deep. Estimate: $6500-$7500
41012 QUARTZ Collier Creek Mine, Mt Ida, Montgomery Co., Arkansas, USA Group of water clear Quartz crystals that are sharp and lustrous with little or no damage. Overall specimen measurements are 4½ x 5¾ x 5 inches and the largest crystal is 3⅝ inches long. Comes with custom labeled acrylic base and was originally from the George Feist collection. Estimate: $300-$400
41013 “JAPAN LAW” QUARTZ TWIN Collier Creek Mine, Mt Ida, Montgomery Co., Arkansas, USA Towering above a group of normal Quartz prisms, is a large “Japan Law” twin that measures an impressive 3⅝ inches across the “ears”. Sharp, lustrous and transparent, this “Japan Law” Quartz specimen is from an unusual locality for such things: Arkansas. In fine condition with the exception of a minor nick to one arm of the main crystal, it sits on a custom labeled base and measures 2½ x 4 x 2⅛ inches overall. Estimate: $2800-$3200
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41014 AMETHYST “THRONE” Artigas, Artigas Department, Uruguay A large, partially exposed Amethyst geode, nicknamed the “Throne”, from the Brazil-Uruguay border region. What is unusual about this geode is the presence of a meadering row of stubby, doubly terminated Amethyst crystals with colorless centers marching their way from the lower front section into the dark purple interior. Some of the Amethyst crystals have facet grade terminations and the doubly-terminated ones range in size up to 5 inches long and 2 inches in diameter. The overall dimensions are 25 x 20 x 21½ inches. Estimate: $4000-$5000
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41015 QUARTZ Collier Creek Mine, Mt Ida, Montgomery Co., Arkansas, USA A multiple crystal group of Quartz featuring moderately large and very sharp, transparent Quartz prisms. The interiors of the crystals frequently show traces of “phantom” growth, as shown by the presence of planar areas of grey inclusions, trapped deep inside. Although there is a scattering of chipped crystals, the overall condition is quite fine. Luster and transparency are excellent. Overall measurements are 21 x 14 x 11 inches with the largest crystal measuring 7 inches long by 3+ inches in diameter. Estimate: $3750-$4500
41016 QUARTZ Fisher Spur Quartz Mine, Fisher Mtn, Montgomery Co., Arkansas, USA A museum size group of Quartz prisms arranged in a randomly radiating fashion. The largest crystal is a very hefty 18 inches long and 6 inches in diameter. It is remarkably free from defects: only a very minor amount of nicks to the terminal edges. The group displays a gold orange hue in certain parts due chiefly to minor amounts of iron oxide deposited along fissures between the crystals. Overall measurements are 22 x 14 x 16 inches. Estimate: $2500-$3000
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41017 SMOKY QUARTZ Santa Maria do Jetiba, Espirito Santo, Southeast Region, Brazil A charming combination of a single smoky Quartz crystal with complex ‘cathedral’ type of faces nestled into an off-white Feldspar matrix with tan and ocher highlights. There are ‘phantoms’ and fensters along with scores of varied faces. Minor damage to termination, otherwise in good condition. Overall specimen measurements are 8¼ x 9 x 6½ inches and it has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $1500-$2000
41018 QUARTZ Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Southeast Region, Brazil Single ‘floater’ crystals formed when tectonic movement sheared off this large crystal at its base. Since this occurred when growth conditions were still favorable, the broken surface became another ‘face’ of the growing crystal. The color of this transparent gem is a light smoky tint with occasional ‘veil’ type inclusions. The luster is fine and the specimen’s condition is excellent. Measures 11.5 inches long x 5 inches wide x 4.5 inches deep. Estimate: $1800-$2200
41019 QUARTZ WITH DOLOMITE & PYRITE Cavnic, Maramures Co., Romania A dark smoky Quartz “pineapple” with complex multiple faces overcoated with cream colored Dolomite “snow”. The Quartz is bright and lustrous and contrasts strongly with the Dolomite cap. There is a bright Pyrite nodule to one side. This unusual and aesthetic specimen is in excellent condition and measures 3 x 3 x 4 inches and comes with a custom labeled base. Estimate: $500-$700
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41020 MIMETITE San Pedro Corralitos, Mun. de Casas Grandes, Chihuahua, Mexico Golden, yellow-orange Mimetite, typical botryoidal encrustation on brown limonite matrix. Small contact area on the side, but otherwise in fine condition. Overall measurements of 2¼ x 3⅝ x 2½ inches with custom labeled base. Originally purchased from mineral dealer Dan Belsher. Estimate: $250-$350
41021 MANGANOCALCITE Verchniy Mine, Karadubsky Ore Field, Dal’negorsk, Primorskiy Kray, Far-Eastern Region, Russia This fine Manganocalcite consists of light pink, nailhead spars on a very sizable plate. This cabinet specimen has good satin luster and excellent crystal form. It has bright orange fluorescence under short-wave UV light. Overall measurements are 1⅛ x 6⅛ x 3⅜ inches and there is a custom labeled base. Ex Vladimir Kuvshinov collection. Estimate: $800-$1200
41022 PINK SMITHSONITE Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia Pink Smithsonite specimen on massive Galena with a small amount of accessory Sphalerite and Galena crystals. This Tsumeb specimen has one inconsequential nick but is otherwise fine. Measuring 2½ x 2¾ x 3 inches, it has a custom labeled base. Ex Dick Hauck collection. Estimate: $1000-$1500
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41023 SMITHSONITE Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia Colorless to light pink Smithsonite on massive Galena. There is minor damage to the edges, otherwise in fine condition. Overall measurements are 3 x 3½ x 3¾ inches and it has custom labeled base. Ex Dick Hauck collection. Estimate: $200-$300
41024 MIMETITE San Pedro Corralitos, Mun. de Casas Grandes, Chihuahua, Mexico Bright yellow, botryoidal Mimetite crystals with velvety luster on a blade of limestone. Some of the limestone matrix shows through the coverage of Mimetite, adding additional contrast to the specimen. In good condition, the specimen measures 1¼ x 4⅝ x 2⅞ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $50-$100
41025 COLLECTION OF 4 MAPIMI ADAMITES Ojuela Mine, Mapimí, Mun. de Mapimí, Durango, Mexico Lot of four Adamite specimens from the Ojuela Mine ranging in color from pale yellow to yellow-green to light green. All of the specimens have lustrous Adamite crystals, are on a orange/brown/ochre limonite matrix, and have custom labeled bases. They are all thumbnail to miniature sized specimens. Estimate: $400-$600
41026 CLASSIC CINNABAR ON DOLOMITE Xiangxi Deposit, Yuanling Co., Huaihua Prefecture, Hunan Province, China Classic deep red Cinnabar twin on crystallized Dolomite matrix. There is minor damage to the rear of the Cinnabar, otherwise in excellent condition. This was purchased from Daniel Jr. before it could be brought to market. Overall this fine miniature measures 2 x 2 x 2½ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $350-$450
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41027 UVITE ON QUARTZ Serra das Éguas (Brumado), Bahia, Northeast Region, Brazil Multiple Uvite Tourmaline crystals included in, and on, a colorless Quartz crystal. The condition of the Uvites ranges from pristine to some with broken terminations. Overall measurements of 1¼ x 1⅛ x 2¾ inches with a custom labeled base. Estimate: $30-$50
41028 TWO STELLERITES Sarbai Mine, Rudnyi Altai, Qostaney Oblysy, Kazakhstan Pair of Stellerite specimens; golden yellow spherical aggregates with associated zeolitic matrixes. Both specimens are in fine condition and sit on the same custom labeled base. They measure 1⅛ x 1 x ⅝ inches and 1½ x 1¾ x ⅞ inches, respectively. Estimate: $500-$1000
41029 ARAGONITE “POODLE” Santa Eulalia District, Mun de. Aquiles Serdan, Chihuahua, Mexico A typical example of the kind of Calcite found lining the walls of fissure caves associated with the silver ore bodies found in this Mexican mining district. The overall shape, suggestive by the hundreds of globular Calcite crystal groups making up this decorative wonder, is that of man’s best friend – the dog. More specifically, a poodle. There are scattered encrustations of Selenite but close inspection is required to differentiate them. In good condition with minor flaws, the “Poodle” measures 22 x 17 x 12 inches. Estimate: $2000-$2500
41030 BLUE FLUORITE WITH CALCITE Xianghualing Mine, Linwu Co., Chenzhou Prefecture, Hunan Province, China Blue grey Fluorites with velvet druzy surfaces and tabular colorless “poker chip” Calcites. The octahedrons are sharp and clean with no damage, in fine condition. From the famous “blue” pocket, it was acquired from Daniel Jr. before it could be brought to market. Overall measurements are 3½ x 6 x 3½ inches and the largest octahedrons are 2¼ inches on edge. It has a custom labeled lucite base. Estimate: $6000-$7500
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41031 DEEP PURPLE FLUORITE Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee District, Smith Co., Tennessee, USA Group of dark purple Fluorite cubes that are almost black in color. These sharp crystals have a peculiar luster due to the multiple stepped faces. In fine condition, the largest crystal is ⅞ inch on edge and overall measurements are 2¼ x 4 x 1¾ inches. Has custom labeled base. Estimate: $300-$400
41032 GREEN FLUORITE Xianghualing Mine, Linwu Co., Chenzhou Prefecture, Hunan Province, China Light green cubes of Fluorite with octahedral modifications and pyramidal “cloud” type phantoms. Specimen is in fine condition and the largest crystal measures 1½ inches on edge. Overall specimen measurements are 2½ x 3½ x 2½ inches and it has a custom labeled acrylic base. Estimate: $400-$500
41033 COLLECTION OF 4 CHINESE FLUORITES Xianghualing Mine and Yaogangxian Mine, both in Chenzhou Prefecture, Hunan Province, China Four distinct Fluorite specimens from China showing the variety of colors that these two mines produce: green with phantoms, blue with purple phantoms, pale green, and purple with violet exterior. The Fluorites are simple cubes and each specimen is in fine condition and has a custom base. The specimens measure 2 x 1⅝ x 1¾ inches, 1⅛ x 2⅛ x 2 inches, 3 x 2½ x 2⅛ inches, and 1¼ x 1⅜ x 1 inches respectively. Estimate: $500-$800
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41034 PURPLE FLUORITE ON QUARTZ WITH SCHEELITE Yaogangxian Mine, Yizhang Co., Chenzhou Prefecture, Hunan Province, China Bright purple Fluorite cubes perched on a Quartz crystal with Dolomite and Scheelite. This combination attests to its Chinese origins, and the Fluorites and Scheelites are both fluorescent. In fine condition, this specimen was purchased from Daniel Jr. before it could be brought to market. Measuring ⅞ x ⅞ x 2¼ inches, this miniature sits upright on a custom base. Estimate: $150-$250
41035 CALCITE TWIN ON SPHALERITE & BARITE Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee District, Smith Co., Tennessee, USA Honey colored scalenohedron of Calcite on a matrix of dark Sphalerite and pale yellow Witherite with some minor accessory purple Fluorite. Minor nicking to Calcite crystal with contact on one end, otherwise fine & lustrous. Overall dimensions are 4⅛ x 4¼ x 3½ inches and has a custom labeled acrylic base. Ex George Feist collection. Estimate: $4000-$5000
41036 TWINNED WATER CLEAR CALCITE Sarbai Mine, Rudnyi Altai, Qostaney Oblysy, Kazakhstan Water clear, twinned Calcite crystals on a small amount of dark grey matrix. Fine luster and transparency with some inconsequential nicking to corners, otherwise in fine condition. Acid polished, the common practice for this locality, this specimen measures 2¼ x 2½ x 2¼ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $150-$200
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41037 TWINNED CALCITE Sarbai Mine, Rudnyi Altai, Qostaney Oblysy, Kazakhstan A twinned, golden yellow Calcite group that is in fine to excellent condition. This lovely crystal group has been acid polished, has fine transparency and luster with very minor contact. It has a custom labeled base and measures 2 x 2¾ x 2 inches. Estimate: $250-$300
41038 WATER-CLEAR YELLOW CALCITE Sarbai Mine, Rudnyi Altai, Qostaney Oblysy, Kazakhstan Group of water clear, light yellow Calcite crystals with excellent luster and high transparency. In fine condition, and as is common for the locality, they have been acid polished. The specimen sits on a custom labeled base. Overall measurements are 2⅝ x 3 x 2⅝ inches. Estimate: $400-$500
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41039 CALCITE Verchniy Mine, Karadubsky Ore Field, Dal’negorsk, Primorskiy Kray, Far-Eastern Region, Russia Single honey-colored Calcite that is very transparent. The specimen is sharp and clean with traces of matrix on the bottom surface and it appears to have been acid polished: not unusual for material from this locality. It measures 2½ x 2⅝ x 2⅜ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $250-$350
41040 CALCITE ON MATRIX Sarbai Mine, Rudnyi Altai, Qostaney Oblysy, Kazakhstan Twinned light yellow Calcite crystal on matrix with good luster and in very good condition. Measures 1⅜ x 2⅞ x 2½ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $200-$250
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41041 CALCITE & FLUORITE ON BARITE Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee District, Smith Co., Tennessee, USA Scalenohedral Calcites on Barite matrix with small purple Fluorite accents. The Calcites are typical golden color ranging from colorless at the base to golden orange at the terminations. There is very minor damage on this unusual association piece, otherwise in fine condition. It measures 5½ x 5¾ x 4⅛ inches with the largest Calcite measuring 4 inches long. In fine condition, with custom labeled base. Ex George Feist collection. Estimate: $3000-$3500
41042 COLLECTION OF 3 RUSSIAN CALCITES Verchniy Mine, Karadubsky Ore Field, Dal’negorsk, Primorskiy Kray, Far-Eastern Region, Russia A lot of three sharp, colorless Calcite specimens from the same Russian mine. All of these miniature Calcite specimens have custom labeled bases and were either from the Vladimir Pelepenko collection or the Iouri Poustov collection. They measure ¾ x 2¾ inches, 1½ x 1¼ x 1⅝ inches and 1 x 1 x 2¾ respectively. Estimate: $300-$450
41043 CALCITES PERCHED ON QUARTZ Yaogangxian Mine, Yizhang Co., Chenzhou Prefecture, Hunan Province, China Colorless, prismatic Quartz crystal with an aggregate of cream colored “poker chip” Calcite crystals proceeding down one of the terminal faces. Both the Quartz and Calcite crystals are in fine condition. Accompanied with a custom labeled base, the overall specimen measures 1¼ x 1¾ x 2¾ inches. Estimate: $150-$200
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41044 BI-COLOR CALCITE — STUDY IN BLACK & WHITE Cavnic, Maramures Co., Romania Unusual aggregate of bladed Calcite crystals; half of the specimen displays black coloration due to inclusions, while the other half is colorless. The habit is a floater type with no obvious point of attachment. In excellent condition, it measures 1½ x 2⅛ x 1 inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $75-$100
41045 CALCITE Verchniy Mine, Karadubsky Ore Field, Dal’negorsk, Primorskiy Kray, Far-Eastern Region, Russia Group of flat Calcite crystals with an almost pearly luster. Crystal surfaces are sprinkled with white spherical hemispheres of Calcite (?). In fine condition with custom labeled base and measuring 4 x 5¼ x 4½ inches. Estimate: $1200-$1500
41046 COPPER IN CALCITE Quincy Mine, Hancock, Houghton Co., Michigan, USA Native Copper included in colorless Calcite; the bright Copper is embedded in a scalenohedral, colorless Calcite crystal. The tip shows minor cleavage, otherwise in fine condition. It has a custom labeled base and measures 1½ x 1¾ x 2 inches. Estimate: $75-$100
41047 NATIVE COPPER ALTERING TO MALACHITE & CUPRITE Bisbee, Warren District, Mule Mts, Cochise Co., Arizona, USA Large mass of herringbone patterned Native Copper crystals with surface alteration of Malachite and Cuprite. Fine specimen with wonderful patina for this locality; complete and in fine condition with custom labeled base. Overall measurements are 3 x 4¼ x 3½ inches. Ex Joe Celine collection. Estimate: $350-$400
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41048 NATIVE SILVER Houghton Co., Michigan, USA This Native Silver is comprised of thin veins of Silver in a matrix that is now largely removed. There are minor amounts of what appears to be limestone in the center of the specimen. With a fine patina that indicates that it is an older specimen, it measures a sizable 2¼ x 4¼ x 4 inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $300-$500
41049 MALACHITE ON AZURITE Touissit, Touissit District, Oujda-Angad Province, Oriental Region, Morocco Azurite with Malachite in a small vug. The Azurites are bright blue and prismatic and, in some cases, overcoated with green Malachite. The primary Azurite crystal is well terminated and overall measurements are 1⅞ x 3 x 2¼ inches. Has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $200-$300
41050 AZURITE & MALACHITE Bisbee, Warren District, Mule Mts, Cochise Co., Arizona, USA Classic Bisbee Azurite specimen with bright, deep blue druzy crystals encrusting a Malachite matrix. There is good luster in both the Azurite and Malachite areas on this small cabinet specimen that is in very good condition. With dimensions of 2⅝ x 5 x 3¾ inches, it sits upright on its custom labeled base. Ex Joe Celine collection. Estimate: $1500-$2000
41051 COLLECTION OF 3 AZURITES FROM MORENCI & BISBEE Morenci Mine of Greenlee County and Bisbee District of Cochise County, both located in Arizona, USA Lot of three distinctively bright blue Azurite specimens from Arizona. All of these miniature specimens are in fine condition, with the exception of some very minor contact areas, and all have custom labeled bases. Overall measurements are 1 x 1⅜ x 1½ inches, 1 x 1⅞ x 1⅝ inches, and 1 x 2⅛ x 1⅛ inches respectively. Estimate: $500-$750 View color images of virtually every lot and place bids at HA.com
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41052 CERUSSITE WITH MOTTRAMITE Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia A group of Cerussite twins scattered across a matrix of Mottramite. The Cerussites are colorless, lustrous, and typical of Tsumeb material; there are areas of Mottramite overcoating on certain faces. The condition is generally fine with some minor damage to individual crystals. Overall measurements are 3⅝ x 5¼ x 2⅝ inches and it has a custom labeled base. Ex Dick Hauck collection. Estimate: $750-$850
41053 ADAMITE Ojuela Mine, Mapimí, Mun. de Mapimí, Durango, Mexico Very bright Adamite specimen, light yellow-green color on orangebrown limonite gossan matrix. Fluoresces green under long-wave ultraviolet light. The specimen measures 2¾ x 3¾ x 4 inches and is in fine condition. Fitted with a custom labeled base. Estimate: $800-$1000
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41054 LOT OF TWO ADAMITE SPECIMENS Ojuela Mine, Mapimí, Mun. de Mapimí, Durango, Mexico A lot of two Adamite specimens from the same locality: the first is a group of robin’s egg blue Cuprian Adamite in a cavity of brick-red limonite matrix, and the second is a semi-spherical aggregate of yellow-green Adamite in an ochre colored limonitic matrix. Both specimens are in fine condition and measure 2½ x 4½ x 2 inches and 1⅝ x 2½ x 1¾ inches respectively. With custom labeled bases. Estimate: $300-$350
41055 PURPLE ADAMITE Ojuela Mine, Mapimí, Mun. de Mapimí, Durango, Mexico Colorful purple to light violet Adamite crystals in a cavity of dark limonitic gossan. The largest Adamite crystal is ¼ inch long and the overall specimen measures 1½ x 3½ x 3⅝ inches. It sits on a custom labeled base. Estimate: $600-$750
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41056 COLLECTION OF 4 PURPLE ADAMITES Ojuela Mine, Mapimí, Mun. de Mapimí, Durango, Mexico Four miniature purple Adamite specimens; the Adamite crystals all have lilac or pale purple tips with colorless bases. From the famed discovery of over 20 years ago, these purple Adamite specimens each has a custom base. They measure 1½ x 1⅝ x 1 inches, 1⅜ x 1¾ x ⅞ inches, 1 x 1⅞ x 1 inches and 1½ x 2¼ x ⅞ inches respectively. Estimate: $500-$700
41058 UNUSUAL GREEN APOPHYLLITE Gunjale, Ahmadnagar District, Maharashtra, India Unusual yellow-green Apophyllite with matte terminal faces and glassy side faces. The largest crystal measures 1¼ inches and is in fine condition. Overall measurements are 1⅝ x 1¾ x 1⅜ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $50-$75
41057 APOPHYLLITE ON QUARTZ STALACTITE WITH STILBITE Pune District, Maharashtra, India Group of double-terminated Apophyllite crystals with Stilbite accents on a Quartz stalactite. In very fine condition, it was originally purchased from mineral dealer K.C. Pandey. Overall measurements are 1 x 1 x 4½ inches and the largest crystal is 2 inches long. Has a custom labeled acrylic base. Estimate: $250-$350
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41059 APOPHYLLITE & STILBITE Pune District, Maharashtra, India “V” shaped, dual stalactite group featuring colorless, glassy Apophyllite prisms, some with green centers and accompanied by pale peach, glassy Stilbite; all on a Quartz Chalcedony stalactitic core. Condition is pristine. It was originally purchased from mineral dealer K.C. Pandey. Overall specimen measurements are 2 x 5 x 4½ inches and it has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $1200-$1500
41060 STILBITE “BOWTIE“ Pune District, Maharashtra, India Cream colored Stilbite “bowtie” group with excellent luster and habit. In fine condition with some inconsequential damage to the backside. Specimen measurements are 2¼ x 2 x 3¼ inches and it has a custom labeled base. Specimen was originally purchased from mineral dealer K.C. Pandey. Estimate: $150-$200
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41061 QUARTZ WITH STANNITE Yaogangxian Mine, Yizhang Co., Chenzhou Prefecture, Hunan Province, China A very fine reniform/botryoidal Stannite crystal group with one major colorless Quartz protruding from it, along with an encapsulated Pyrite cube. Well crystallized Stannite crystals are highly unusual and this is an excellent example. In fine condition, this miniature measures 1⅞ x 2 x 1¾ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $400-$500
41062 TWIN NEPTUNITE & BENITOITE Dallas Gem Mine, New Idria District, San Benito Co., California, USA Twinned, doubly-terminated Neptunite crystals perched on a Natrolite/Crossite matrix with associated Benitoites and Joaquinites. There is a slight contact to the Neptunite, otherwise this aesthetic specimen from this now defunct locality is in fine condition. Overall measurements are ¾ x 2¼ x 2¾ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $350-$450
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41063 NEPTUNITE WITH JOAQUINITE ON MATRIX Dallas Gem Mine, New Idria District, San Benito Co., California, USA Neptunite on a matrix of Natrolite/Crossite with associated Joaquinite. The Neptunites are black, lustrous and in fine condition. Measures 1 x 3 x 2⅞ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $450-$550
41064 WULFENITE WITH ENDLICHITE Erupcion Mine, Sierra de Los Lamentos, Mun. de Ahumada, Chihuahua, Mexico Large, flat, square Wulfenite crystals with the typical caramel color, in association with Mimetite and Endlichite crystals. There is one broken crystal in the rear which does not affect its display, otherwise in fine condition with little or no damage. It measures 3⅛ x 3 x 2⅛ inches, the largest Wulfenite is 1⅜ inches on edge, and it has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $350-$450
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41065 EPIDOTE WITH QUARTZ VAR. JAPAN-LAW TWIN Green Monster Mountain, Prince of Wales Island, Prince of Wales-Outer Ketchikan Borough, Alaska, USA A large Epidote prism, quite sizable for the locality, has one “Japan-Law” twinned Quartz along with multiple normal Quartz crystals. With bright faces and in fine condition, the Epidote stands 2 inches high, with overall dimensions of 1¾ x 2 x 2 inches. There is a custom labeled stand. Estimate: $600-$800
41066 AQUAMARINE ON MATRIX Nagar, Hunza Valley, Gilgit District, Northern Areas, Pakistan Deep blue Aquamarine specimen with one major and one minor crystal on a white Feldspar matrix with accessory Muscovite. The primary crystal has an unusual termination and a hollow area near the base where there was originally a Feldspar crystal. In fine condition, the large crystal measures 3⅜ inches in length and 1⅝ inches in diameter. Overall specimen measurements are 2⅝ x 2¾ x 3 inches, with a custom labeled base. This specimen was purchased from Daniel Jr. before it could be brought to market. Estimate: $800-$1000
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41067 PERIDOT Manshera, Naran-Kagan Valley, Kohistan District, North-West Frontier Province, Pakistan Well terminated, gemmy green, sharp Peridot crystal with typical complex “melted” exterior appearance. One side shows obvious contact where it grew up to another crystal. In fine condition, this thumbnail specimen measures ¾ x 1⅛ x 1 inches. Sits upright in custom labeled base. Estimate: $500-$700
41070 STIBNITE Dahegou Mine, Lushi Co., Sanmenxia Prefecture, Henan Province, China Single, well terminated Stibnite “sword” with some edge damage, typical of early material, otherwise in fine condition. The Stibnite is 8¼ inches long and ⅜ x 1 inch in diameter. Sits upright in a custom labeled base. Estimate: $300-$400
41068 PERIDOT Manshera, Naran-Kagan Valley, Kohistan District, North-West Frontier Province, Pakistan Well terminated, bright green, sharp Peridot crystal with typical complex “melted” exterior appearance and an included area of magnetite to one side. In fine condition, this thumbnail crystal measures ⅞ x 1 x 1⅛ inches. Sits upright in custom base. Estimate: $450-$550
41071 STIBNITE Dahegou Mine, Lushi Co., Sanmenxia Prefecture, Henan Province, China This Stibnite is a fine example of the “bent” habit that Daniel Sr. liked to collect. With lustrous, striated crystal faces, it has a slightly ragged termination because it was squished during formation. There is the normal minor nicking to crystal edges but in otherwise excellent condition at 7 inches long and ⅝ x 1⅛ inches in diameter. It sits upright in its custom labeled base and was obtained from Daniel Jr. before it could be brought to market. Estimate: $300-$400
41069 TOURMALINE WITH CLEVELANDITE Darra-i-Pech Pegmatite Field, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan Simple Tourmaline prism that has a dark Schorl body with a thin blue and pink flat termination. There are large, contrasting white Clevelandite blades on the side, offering a strong textural contrast. In good condition with slight contact damage on the side of the Tourmaline, the overall measurements are 2¾ x 3⅛ x 3⅜ inches with a custom labeled base. Estimate: $800-$1000
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41072 COLLECTION OF 3 CHINESE STIBNITES Xikuangshan Antimony Deposit in Hunan Province and Dahegou Mine in Henan Province, China Three “jackstraw” Chinese Stibnite specimens, one from the Xikuangshan Antimony Deposit and two from the Dahegou Mine. All of these cabinet sized specimens are accompanied by custom labeled bases. They measure 2¾ x 3 x 3⅛ inches, 3 x 3⅜ x 4½ inches and 4 x 4 x 5⅞ inches respectively. Estimate: $500-$700
41073 INDIAN “PAINT” POT This unusual specimen, accompanied by its original label, states that it is an “Indian Paint Pot” that was found near Port Washington on Long Island, New York. It was originally from the Wallings Collection which dates back to the 1950’s or earlier. Obviously a sandstone concretion, it most certainly resembles a “paint pot” and indeed could have originally been used as such by native peoples. Thus this natural curiosity could also be a utilitarian artifact. Overall specimen measurements are 2⅛ x 3¼ x 1 inches. Estimate: $250-$500
End of The Daniel Trinchillo Sr. Collection of Fine Minerals
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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Minerals — various owners
41074 SEMI-CRYSTALLIZED GOLD NUGGET Miraposa County, California Much of the surface of this nugget displays the characteristic triangular crystallization sometimes found on the most desirable gold nuggets, with little sign of the more common botryoidal growths, indicating that it must have been retrieved in situ, or have travelled very little distance from its source before being discovered by the fortunate prospector. This uncommonly large nugget measures 5 x 4 inches and weighs 1035.12 grams (33.28 troy ounces). Estimate: $34000-$38000
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41075 CRYSTALLIZED NATIVE GOLD Round Mountain, Nye Co., Nevada A large mass of interlocking spinel-twinned crystals, some of which grade into free-standing wires up to one inch in length. The color is the rich, warm yellow with orange highlights typical of high purity Gold. This lustrous group is in excellent condition and it measures 2¼ x 1¾ x ⅝ inches and weighs a sizable 85.05 grams. The specimen sits upright in a custom labeled base. Estimate: $22000-$25000
41076 RARE GOLD HOPPER CRYSTAL Alta Floresta, Mato Grosso, Brazil Whereas most gold nuggets exhibit familiar botroidal growths, or are rubbed smooth as they travel from their host rock along waterways before being discovered by the prospector, some few form in clusters of distinctive crystals and are recovered unaltered in that form. Gold of this type is extremely rare, and this is a fine specimen from an unusual location. This distinctive form is described as “hoppered” in shape – the edges of the hoppered crystal are fully formed, but because the crystal grew so rapidly, interior spaces were not filled in and the result is a beautiful, almost artificialseeming lattice formation. This lovely example demonstrates the phenomenon perfectly, with tiny rods and folds that look as though a large flat sheet of gold had been carefully folded in on itself. A comparatively large specimen, it displays a beautiful strong yellow color denoting a high karat content, and measures approximately 1 x ⅞ x ½ inches, weighing 0.688 Troy ounces (21.4 grams). Estimate: $9500-$11000
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41077 FINE GOLD HOPPER CRYSTAL Alta Floresta, Mato Grosso, Brazil The strange process known as “hoppering” occurs when a crystal grows so rapidly that only the exterior is fully formed, and the interior takes on a lattice effect that looks as though parts of the crystal had been removed. This occurs when the electrical attraction at the edges of the crystal is strong enough that growth is concentrated in those areas, leaving the interior behind. The result is a strange and beautiful phenomenon, perfectly demonstrated in this exquisite little nugget: rows of regular crystal rods have grown in an uncannily regular herring bone formation at the centre, whilst the outer areas exhibit some of the more familiar botroidal forms and smooth burnishing. The whole specimen looks almost as though it were a sheet of golden clay, carefully folded and formed by man, whereas in fact it is yet another example of the wonderful inventiveness of nature. This fine specimen measures approximately ⅞ x ⅝ x ⅜ and weighs 0.25 Troy ounces (7.8 grams). Estimate: $4000-$5000
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41078 NATIVE GOLD CRYSTALS Round Mountain, Nye Co., Nevada Native Gold specimen with flattened octahedral crystals to ⅜ of an inch. Some of the faces show ‘hopper’ type of growth. Color and luster are the typical for Round Mountain Gold specimens. This crystallized Gold measures 1½ x ⅞ x ⅛ inches, weighs 14.17 grams Estimate: $4500-$5500
41080 CRYSTALLIZED NATIVE GOLD “LEAF” Round Mountain, Nye Co., Nevada Leaf type gold specimen featuring sizable flattened octahedral crystal faces. High Karat color typical of the Round Mountain location. In excellent condition, this fine Gold specimen measures 2½ x 1¼ x 1∕16 inches and weighs 19.84 grams. Accompanied by a custom labeled base. Estimate: $3500-$4500
41079 NATIVE GOLD “LEAF” Round Mountain, Nye Co., Nevada A single ‘leaf’ of Gold, composed of flattened octahedra with rich, high Karat color and bright luster. Excellent condition. It measures 1¾ x ⅞ x ⅛ inches and weighs 5.67 grams. Estimate: $4000-$5000
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41082 BEAUTIFUL GOLD NUGGET Glenluce, Victoria, Australia Gold has been used as currency for over 4000 years and will never lose its value. One reason for its popularity is its seductive aesthetic appeal, a characteristic perfectly demonstrated in this wonderful nugget. The beautiful pure gold color denotes a high karat content, but the whimsical, curving, organic-seeming form is what really sets this specimen apart. With bulges, folds, craters and light depressions, one side has been rubbed to an almost entirely smooth burnished finish whilst the other displays beautifully textured impressions like thumbprints. A lovely example of mankind’s favorite precious metal measuring approximately 2⅞ x 2¼ x 1 inches and weighs in at 13.33 Troy ounces (414.6 grams). Estimate: $18000-$22000
41081 LARGE GOLD NUGGET Western Australia Once again, the ancient gold fields of Australia yield a marvel. Gold nuggets weighing over 5 ounces are extremely rare, and most are dull, brassy and unattractive. The present specimen has the faultless golden yellow hue however, that denotes a high karat content (98% +), and a marvelous combination of natural pitting and hollows. One such depression has the fine textured form of crushed gold leaf, but most of the surface displays the wonderfully smooth curves and burnishing that tell of the nugget’s long journey across the Australian outback, tumbled smooth by what scarce waters are to be found there. Of superb aesthetic appeal and unusually generous size, this prize measures approximately 4¾ x 2⅜ x ⅝ inches and weighs an impressive 17.68 Troy ounces (550 grams). Estimate: $25000-$28000
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41083 NATIVE GOLD NUGGET Kalgoorlie, Western Australia Most gold recovered today is microscopic, the massive scale of modern mining techniques being antipathetic to the recovery of specimen gold. This means that natural gold nuggets such as this one are becoming more rare as productivity increases and technology marches inexorably forwards. Yet it is in this form that gold reveals its most alluring natural beauty, best displayed in such specimens from Australia, famed for their high karat content, as denoted by the lovely yellow golden hue. This specimen is of an elegantly compact and almost geometrically square outline, and displays a fine variety of textures: the raised botroidal areas have a smooth curving finish but are interspersed with dips and craters exhibiting greater texture, one section with delicate apertures beneath two fine arches of burnished metal. An exquisite little nugget, it measures approximately 1½ x 1½ x ⅝ inches and weighs 4.02 Troy ounces (125.2 grams). Estimate: $6000-$7000 Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41084 NATIVE SILVER SPECIMEN — “THE DRAGON” Hongda Mine, Xiaoqinggou Ag-Mn deposit, Lingqiu Co., Datong Prefecture, Shanxi Province, People’s Republic of China Like a metallic Dragon rising from a dark Sea, this massive Native Silver wire rises in sinuous curves from a black Acanthite matrix. The massive central wire is complimented by a delicately entwined cluster of recurved wires at one side of the base. This is an example of a rarely seen type of specimen coming from a very atypical part of the World: China. The luster is silver-white without any patina; indicating that it is probably the product of recent mining operations. The central ‘wire’ measures a hefty and impressive ¾ inch across and the specimen overall measures 3 x 3¼ x 2 inches. A rare and exotic specimen that is accompanied by a custom labeled base. Estimate: $65000-$85000
41085 EXTREMELY LARGE COPPER NUGGET — “FLOAT COPPER” Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan Copper ‘nuggets’ from the Upper Peninsula of Michigan are not particularly rare. Large ones with multiple hollow ‘casts’, where Calcite crystals were once embedded in them, are. We know that the ‘casts’ were of Calcite crystals because in a few, recessed areas there are still remnants of those crystals. The rounded exterior is the result of glacial ‘scouring’ during the last Ice Age, when enormous moving masses of ice bulldozed through copper seams in the country rock of the area. Upon melting, the glacier literally ‘dropped its load’, scattering debris far and wide. Rarely are they found in this size and particularly rare, with these features. The exterior has been polished in selected areas to provide a window into the shining interior of this exceptional specimen that measures an impressive 30¾ x 19½ x 6½ inches thick. It weighs a whopping 313 pounds. Estimate: $6000-$8000 32
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41086 NATIVE COPPER ON MATRIX Upper Peninsula, Michigan A large and decorative matrix specimen of metallic Copper from the now inactive mines of Upper Michigan. The native Copper rises as a branching, irregular mass from the green/black surface of the host rock. The copper is not entirely free from the enclosing matrix; a certain amount can be seen trapped in the dark stone. Fine condition. 10h x 8w x 5 inches deep. Estimate: $2,800-$3,500
41087 NATIVE COPPER Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia Native Copper crystal group displaying uncommonly sharp crystals for this location. The medium bronze patina taken along with the overall fine luster and condition make this a notable specimen and large for Tsumeb. Overall dimensions are 4¼ x 2¾ x ⅝ inches. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $1500-$2500
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41088 VERY LARGE & IMPRESSIVE PYRITE CRYSTAL Concepción del Oro, Mun. de Concepción del Oro, Zacatecas, Mexico One of the largest and most impressive Pyrite crystal groups to come out of Mexico. This specimen consists of 3 crystals; the primary one is 7¾ x 5½ x 3 inches, the secondary one is 3 inches on edge and the last is 1½ inches on edge. All crystals show octahedral modifications to the corners along with very nice stepped growth surfaces on the mirror-bright faces. Minor damage to one lower edge, otherwise in excellent condition, especially in view of its enormous size. The specimen is featured in the supplement to the Nov/Dec 2008 issue of the Mineralogical Record, which showcases the significant specimens that were in the Romero Collection. It bears the University of Arizona/Romero Collection number 15023. Overall specimen measurements are 9 x 8¾ x 6½ inches. Provenance: Dr. Miguel Romero Sanchez Collection Estimate: $30000-$35000
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41089 COMPLEX PYRITE TWIN Ampliación a Victoria Mine, Navajún, La Rioja, Spain Penetrating each other with geometric precision, the shining cubic forms revealed here are the essence of minimalist art. Close inspection brings complexity to the overall effect through the myriad patterns formed by growth surfaces on the faces of the cubes. The luster is of polished brass against the tan irregular surfaces of the matrix. The largest cube is 2⅛ inches along the ruler-straight line of its’ edge while the overall dimensions are 5½ x 4½ x 3 inches. The specimen is in excellent condition and comes with a custom base. Estimate: $5000-$6000
41090 PYRITE FLOWER ON MATRIX Ampliación a Victoria Mine, Navajún, La Rioja, Spain Like an ancient artefact from some long vanished alien culture, this enigmatic construction seems designed to perplex the viewer with the incongruity of form and luster that stem from its growth from what seems to be a common bit of rock. The multiple intergrown cubic forms captivate the eye with their golden metallic surfaces and sharply limned purity of form. Parallel striations and growth ‘hillocks’ are seen on every face inviting the eye to linger awhile in wonder and delight. The largest crystal is around 1½ inches on edge with at least 8 other major cubes interpenetrating each other in such a way as to appear like a brass, golden flower. In pristine condition, this fine specimen measures 3½ x 4½ x 3 inches. Estimate: $1500-$2000
41091 GALENA ON MATRIX Sweetwater Mine, Ellington, Viburnum Trend District, Reynolds Co., Missouri, USA Large complete Galena crystals on a dark grey calcitic matrix. The largest crystal is 2½ inches on edge and there are two other crystals at 2+ inches and several smaller accessory crystals. The cubic Galena crystals show octahedral modifications to the corners and have a number of colorless Calcite prisms to 7∕16 inch long associated with them. The bright, silvery Galenas have fine luster and are in excellent condition overall. This impressive specimen measures 9½ inches high by 8½ inches wide by 4 inches deep and is mounted on a custom acrylic base for display. Estimate: $7000-$9000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41092 CLASSIC JAPANESE STIBNITE CLUSTER Ichinokawa Mine, Ojoinmura, Nii-gori, Iyo Province, Ehime Prefecture, Shikoku Island, Japan This group of 10+ stout Stibnite crystals radiating from a common base is an old Japanese one purchased from Kyokuhin Seizo Kaisha in 1913 by G. J. Brush. Later, the Brush Collection was acquired by the Peabody Museum of Yale University. The terminations range from pristine to ‘contacted’. Luster is the characteristic “blue” metallic one seen in older Japanese material. There is an accession # “484-IV” on the specimen and on matching labels. A classic mineral with great provenance that measures 8¼ x 6½ x 3 inches and has a custom labeled base. Provenance: Ex G. J. Brush Collection; Ex Peabody Museum, Yale University Estimate: $30000-$35000
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41093 SET OF NINE MALACHITE ‘BULLS-EYE’ SLICES Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga Province (Shaba), Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire) This set is composed of nine transverse slices of a single Malachite stalactite from the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly known as Zaire). Each piece is polished on both sides with the exception of the end piece which is polished on only one side, leaving the termination in its natural state. Each slice has strong “bulls-eye” banding with alternating concentric bands of dark and light green Malachite, and there is a ‘double eyed’ effect as this stalactite was evidently a double, the result of two stalactites growing in close proximity and eventually bonding together. The largest slice is approximately 1⅞ inches in diameter. The set is complete and in fine condition. Estimate: $2000-$2500
41094 MALACHITE STALACTITE Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga Province (Shaba), Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire) The ‘Copper Belt’ of the Congo is home to this lovely ‘cave formation’ found in the upper part of one of the many Copper mines in the area. It is dark green with a druzy “sugar frosting” type of surface and is in absolutely pristine condition. It stands 7½ inches high and is approximately 1½ inches in diameter at its widest part. There is a smaller secondary stalactite to one side at the base. Ex Martin Zinn Collection, bearing his accession #6963 with the matching label. Sits upright in its custom labeled base. Provenance: Ex Martin Zinn Collection Estimate: $7500-$8500
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41095 MALACHITE PSEUDOMORPH AFTER AZURITE Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia A group of one major and three minor Azurite crystals that have been totally replaced by cavernous,velvety, green Malachite. All of the pseudomorphs show the characteristic diamond shaped cross sections and flat terminations normal for this locality. The size, perfection of form and presence of multiple crystals elevates this specimen well above the norm. In pristine condition, it measures 2⅞ x 1¾ x 1¼ inches. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $2500-$3500
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41096 UNUSUAL AZURITE CLUSTER Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia With a habit much more reminescent of Tourmaline, this unusual group of Azurite crystals does not look anything like the normal ‘chisel’ type of crystal form typical for Tsumeb. Two major and one minor prism make up the group. They are deep ‘Azure’ blue in color with some transparency along thin sections. The luster is glassy and the overall condition is excellent. This very unusual and aesthetic group mounts upon a custom acrylic base. Specimen measurements are 2¾ x 1¼ x 1 inches. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $8000-$10000
41097 HISTORIC CUPRITE SPECIMEN Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia Sharp, darkly lustrous cubo-octahedrons up to ⅜ inch in size, cover the chocolate-brown limonite matrix of this fine specimen. This historic specimen dates to the early days of mining in the early 1900’s, at the famed Tsumeb Mine of then; German South-West Africa. It was part of the Washington Roebling (of Brooklyn Bridge fame) Collection that was bequeathed to the Smithsonian Institution near the beginning of the last century. It comes with the proper Smithsonian label as well as ones from Van Scriver and the Roy Smith Collection. An excellently formed and preserved historic specimen for the serious collector. It measures 2½ inches high by 2¼ inches wide by 1⅞ inches deep. It carries the Roebling Collection accession number R17552. Provenance: Ex Roebling Collection, Ex Smithsonian Institution, Ex Van Scriver, Ex Roy Smith Collection Estimate: $8000-$10000
41098 HISTORIC AMAZONITE Pike’s Peak Area, Park Co., Colorado A luscious blue-green hue straight out of a Caribbean fantasy colors this historic Amazonite specimen. Mined in the 1800’s, it was originally in the Clarence S. Bement Collection, which was purchased and donated to the American Museum of Natural History (A.M.N.H.) by financier J.P. Morgan. Decades later it was acquired by mineral dealer and collector Lawrence Conklin. The Amazonite specimen consists of a sharply defined main crystal with a minor secondary crystal to one side. There is a small amount of white, bladed Feldspar matrix at the base. Comes with both the A.M.N.H. label, a Conklin label and is accompanied by a custom acrylic base. Overall specimen dimensions are 3⅛ x 1⅞ x 1½ inches and it is in excellent condition. Provenance: Ex Clarence S. Bement Collection; Ex American Museum of Natural History; Ex Lawrence Conklin Collection Estimate: $6500-$7500
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41099 AMERICAN MINERAL CLASSIC: PYROMORPHITE Bunker Hill Mine, Bunker Hill Properties, Kellogg, Coeur d’Alene District, Shoshone Co., Idaho, USA This large and showy Pyromorphite from the famous Bunker Hill Mine find of 1981-1996 was one of the featured specimens in the American Mineral Treasures exhibit shown at the February 2008 Tucson Gem & Mineral Show. It displays the lovely and unique yellow-green hue that made these specimens so desirable among collectors. The lustrous, barrel shaped crystals cover virtually all surfaces of this very large cabinet specimen. The largest prisms are ⅜ of an inch in diameter and ½ of an inch in length. This premier specimen has resided in the collections of Wayne Sorensen, the dealer who first brought the specimens to market, and Dr. Ed David; Science and Technology advisor to President Nixon. It measures 6½ x 5¼ x 4½ inches thick and is in excellent condition. Provenance: American Mineral Treasures Case, Tucson, Arizona, February 2008 Ex Wayne Sorensen Collection Ex Ed David Collection Estimate: $100000-$125000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41100 BUNKER HILL PYROMORPHITE Bunker Hill Properties, Kellogg, Coeur d’Alene District, Shoshone Co., Idaho, USA Hidden almost two miles from daylight in the almost 320 kilometers of workings of the Bunker Hill Mine was one of the more significant (for mineral collectors) finds of all time. Miners routinely drilling and blasting lead/silver ore found a few ‘pretty rocks’ in the area they were working and took them home. One thing led to another and in short order the area was producing amazing Pyromorphite specimens. Production continued off and on over several years until the ‘pay-streak’ of specimens ran out. The best specimens, of which this is one, combine lustrous, lime-green, hexagonal prisms with an orange variety of Pyromorphite, all on a typical brecciated quartz matrix. Some of the ‘hopper’ type crystals measure up to ⅝ of an inch across and there are numerous crystals in the ⅜ to 5∕16 inch bracket. Sold to a European collector by Kristalle in the 1990’s, this Classic American Mineral specimen is in excellent condition. Overall measurements are 3⅞ x 4 x 2 inches and it has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $30000-$40000
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41101 LARGE GREEN SMITHSONITE Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia A classic Tsumeb Smithsonite consisting of curving linear groups of crystals arranged like lime green icing or draperies on a grey-white matrix typical of the locality. The crystals are lustrous and in fine condition with very minor nicks in inconsequential areas. The specimen measures 5½ x 6¼ x 2½ inches in depth. It reposes upon its custom acrylic base. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $7000-$8000
41102 GREEN SMITHSONITE Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia A classic botryoidal Smithsonite with deep Jade-green color and exceptionally bright luster. The rounded translucent aggregates of the Smithsonite crystals are overcoating a dark matrix, producing a scintillating effect that is quite enchanting. With no apparent damage, this fine specimen is in excellent condition. Measuring 4 x 2¾ inches, it is 2 inches thick. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $3000-$4000
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41103 AQUA – BLUE SMITHSONITE Buena Terra Mine, Santa Eulalia District, Mun. de Aquiles Serdán, Chihuahua, Mexico The Buena Tierra Mine at Santa Eulalia occasionally produces cuprian Smithsonite specimens of an attractive, light blue-green hue. In this lovely example a swarm of rounded, aqua-blue, rhombohedral forms are scattered over an irregular rust red-orange gossan matrix. The only broken areas are at the edges where the Smithsonite was attached to the cavity walls. It measures 3½ x 1¾ x 1⅝ inches deep and is in very fine condition. Estimate: $1500-$2000
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41104 COBALTOAN SMITHSONITE Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia Common as Smithsonite is in the Zinc ore-bodies of the world, it is not at all common in crystallized form. The number of localities producing decent crystals of this mineral can be counted on both hands. Tsumeb is in the top of that group, particularly because of the perfection of form as well as the range of colors found only there. The incorporation of a small amount of Cobalt into the Smithsonite lattice gives the crystals the lovely, pastel pink coloration as seen in this specimen. The form of the crystals is the rounded rhombohedral one immediately recognizable to collectors everywhere as Tsumeb. The largest crystal is a sizable ½ inch in length and all of the crystals are lustrous and sharp. The specimen condition is excellent and overall measurements are 2 x 1½ x ¾ inches. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $1800-$2200
41106 SMITHSONITE EPIMORPHS AFTER CALCITE Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia Consisting of two conjoined hemi-cylindrical ‘casts’ probably after Calcite, this Smithsonite is a finely crystallized druzy type with a warm tan interior and a dark chocolate coloration on the back. There are a couple of broken edges but they detract little from the overall impression. Accession number 455 on bottom, corresponding to John Kassionas Collection Number. Ex Stoudt Collection with previous history from aforementioned Kassionas Collection and Roberts Minerals. The specimen sits upright on a custom acrylic base like an abstract sculpture, overall dimensions are 6 x 4¾ x 1¾ inches. Provenance: Ex John Kassionas Collection; Ex Roberts Minerals; Ex Stoudt Collection Estimate: $7000-$9000
41105 MANGANOAN SMITHSONITE: SINGULAR FIND Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia This rare specimen dates from 1985 when the only pocket of its type was found in the mine. Individual sharp, rhombic crystals to ⅝ inch across were found scattered over an atypical grey matrix with druzy Pyrite. Unlike most of the pink Smithsonite found there, the color in this specimen is caused by the presence of Manganese, not the more normal (for Tsumeb); Cobalt. There is a ‘notch’ in one of the main crystals which shows signs of being part of a complex growth habit. The condition is excellent and this rare specimen measures 2¾ x 1¾ x 1⅞ inches. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $3500-$4500
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41107 EXCEPTIONAL SCHEELITE Mt Xuebaoding, Pingwu Co., Mianyang Prefecture, Sichuan Province, People’s Republic of China Provenance: Ex Wilensky Collection Exceptionally large dipyramidal Scheelite crystal on matrix. Golden yellow-orange color with typical moderately included body becoming transparent and gemmy near the terminations. It is perched on, and intergrown with, silvery Muscovite blades growing out of a micaceous matrix. Luster is very bright, particularly for a Scheelite. There is a minor amount of damage to one termination, otherwise in excellent condition. The main crystal is a sizable 3½ inches across and the specimen measures 6 x 6 x 4½ inches overall. Has a custom labeled base. Ex Wilensky Collection. Estimate: $50000-$60000
41108 MARCASITE Northwest Illinois, near Galena Marcasite is sometimes known as white iron pyrite because of the close similarity in appearance of the two minerals. In fact, it is a polymorph of pyrite, having the same chemistry but a different structure. This specimen perfectly displays the twinned “cock’s comb” orthorhombic crystal structure in the numerous fan-like protuberances that cover its surface, and shines with the characteristic pale brassy metallic luster. The name of marcasite was coined in 1845 after the Arabic word for pyrite, and it was a popular material in Victorian jewelry. In metaphysical crystallography, marcasite is supposed to provide protection to those performing dangerous jobs. This good-sized specimen is quite stable and measures 4¾ x 4½ x 3½ inches. Estimate: $1,800 – $2,500 View color images of virtually every lot and place bids at HA.com
41109 COBALTOCALCITE CAST AFTER DOLOMITE Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia One of the more exotic looking minerals found at Tsumeb is a bubble-gum pink version of Calcite referred to as Cobaltocalcite or Cobaltoan Calcite. In the case of this specimen the material seems to have been deposited over another mineral; probably Dolomite, giving the piece a strange, swirling surface texture. To add to the visual intrigue, the exterior surfaces are tinted a light smoky tan color providing a level of contrast unusual even for Tsumeb. There is a small amount of adhering matrix on one end and some Malachite on the back side. In excellent condition it measures 4 x 3 x 1¾ inches. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $1200-$1800
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41110 WULFENITE ON COBALTOAN DOLOMITE: SINGULAR FIND Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia In the long and complex history of mineral production at Tsumeb there was only one occurrence of the mineral combination of Wulfenite and Cobaltoan Dolomite, as represented by the example seen here. The Wulfenite is well-formed and colorless to a light grey in color, while the Cobaltoan Dolomite displays a light pink shade usually associated with certain young girls dolls. The main Wulfenite is a thick, tabular tetragonal prism, ¾ of an inch across, with a number of modifying faces. There is a very tiny nick to one corner of the Wulfenite, otherwise fine condition. There are 6 smaller, accessory Wulfenites and traces of an unidentified green mineral; probably Duftite. Overall measurements are 3 x 1½ x ⅞ inches. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $6000-$7000
41111 AMERICAN MINERAL CLASSIC: RED CLOUD WULFENITE Red Cloud Mine, Silver District, Trigo Mts, La Paz Co., Arizona, USA Wulfenite from the Red Cloud Mine in Arizona is one of the standards of the mineral collecting world. No serious collection is complete without one. This exceptional specimen combines several attributes of the finest specimens: Multiple large crystals on matrix, fine color and luster, pristine condition with no repairs or damage. There are 6+ major crystals and and a host of minor ones. The largest two crystals are 1¼ and 1 inch across respectively. This fine Red Cloud Wulfenite was one of the featured specimens in the American Mineral Treasures exhibit shown in Tucson in February 2008. It measures 2¾ x 2½ x 2¼ inches and has a custom labeled base. Provenance: American Mineral Treasures Case, Tucson, Arizona, February 2008; Ex Stuart Wilensky Collection Estimate: $70000-$80000
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41112 CERUSSITE ON MOTTRAMITE Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia A large matrix Cerussite specimen with approximately 10 twinned Cerussite crystals, some with included Mottramite/Duftite, scattered over the dark green Mottramite/ Duftite coated matrix. The largest crystals are approximately 1⅜ inches in height and three of them have have minor to moderate amounts of damage, the rest are in fine condition. This large and showy specimen bears a label from the noted Marshall Sussman Collection with various notations on the back. Overall dimensions are 5½ x 4¾ x 3 inches. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection Estimate: $8000-$10000
41113 CERUSSITE Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia “Pink Champagne” is the color that comes closest to describing the hue seen here. Looking down the ‘C’ axis of this reticulated crystal group displays the ‘snowflake’ form particularly well-developed in specimens from Tsumeb. Viewed from the side, the specimen shows the satin luster this mineral is also known for. There is a minor amount of the typical grey matrix and a minor amount of nicks on side edges. Condition is fine. There is an accession number (2892) on the back side. Overall dimensions are 2½ inches long x 1⅞ inches wide x 1⅞ inches deep. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $5000-$7000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41114 YELLOW MIMETITE Pingtouling Mine (Dashuihu Mine), Liannan Co., Qingyuan Prefecture, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China One of the sadder tales in the annals of mineral collecting history is the one regarding the Pingtouling Mine and the lovely Mimetites found there. In the course of the typically uneventful mining operations, a very untypical discovery was made. Strange golden crystals were found in fissures in the ore body. A few were saved to be identified later, but the rest of the odd crystals were sent to the mill. Some time later when the the weird crystals turned out to be rare and valuable Mimetite: most of them had already been ground up and smelted. This exquisite example was one of the lucky survivors. Golden yellow, silky hexagonal ‘barrels’ are delicately sprinkled over a contrasting orange to black matrix. Some crystals are up to ½ inch in length. Brilliant glassy luster, particularly on the flat terminal faces. In pristine condition, this exceptional specimen measures 3 x 1¼ x 1¼ inches and has a custom labeled base. The locality has, so far; produced no more of these treasures. From a private European collection. Estimate: $10000-$15000
41115 BRIGHT YELLOW MIMETITE Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia A very dense coverage of bright yellow Mimetite prisms with a slight greenish cast, overcoating a dark, orange-red limonitic matrix. There are cavernous areas that appear to be ‘casts’ after Cerussite crystals now dissolved away. In excellent condition with a couple of minor areas of ‘contact’ at the edges, this classic specimen measures 3½ x 2¾ x 1⅞ inches deep. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $2000-$3000
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41116 HISTORIC MANGANITE Manganese deposit, Ilfeld, Nordhausen, Harz Mts, Thuringia, Germany An absolutely classic Manganite specimen from the only Manganite locality worthy of the term: Ilfeld in the Harz Mountains of Germany. The crystals are the lustrous black prisms with diamond shaped cross-sections and complex flat terminations that this location is noted for. This small cabinet specimen was part of the G. J. Brush Collection of the Peabody Museum at Yale University. It comes with two labels from the Brush Collection, one of which bears the notation ...”From Herrman 1872” . In addition there are three accession numbers on the back side ... ‘3298’ – twice and ‘74’ – once. In excellent condition, this centuries old specimen measures 3¼ x 3¼ x 2 inches. Provenance: Ex G. J. Brush Collection; Ex Peabody Museum, Yale University Estimate: $2500-$3500 A 19.5% Buyer’s Premium ($9 min.) Applies To All Lots
41117 “POKER CHIP” MANGANOCALCITE 2nd Sovietski Mine (Sovietskiy), Dal’negorsk (Dalnegorsk), Primorskiy Kray, Far-Eastern Region, Russia A double stack of pink, “poker-chip” Calcites growing over and up what appears to be a stalactite of lustrous, midnight-black Sphalerite. The Calcites are in pristine condition with exceptionally good pink coloration for the mineral. The Calcite group is 4¾ inches high and over 3¼ inches across. Fluoresces under UV light. A very fine specimen of the type. Overall measurements are 5½ x 4 x 5¼ inches and it has a custom labeled base. Provenance: Ex Daniel Trinchillo Jr. Collection Estimate: $55000-$65000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41118 ELMWOOD CALCITE WITH PURPLE FLUORITE Elmwood mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith Co., Tennessee, USA The now defunct Elmwood Mine of Tennessee was home to this sharp and glassy, twinned, Scalenohedral Calcite. The 5½ inch long Calcite grades from colorless to a warm, golden-sherry color towards the termination. There are a number of purple Fluorite cubes clustered around the base of the Calcite and a couple of reddish-brown Sphalerite crystals on the dark grey limestone matrix. The Fluorites are quite clean and there is some minor nicking to one edge of the Calcite: not particularly noticeable. Unfortunately for mineral lovers, this mine has been closed after recent attempts to extract mineral specimens have been met with failure. This American Mineral Classic has overall measurements of 5 x 4 x 6¾ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $20000-$25000
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41119 CALCITE ON CONICALCITE (?) on DOLOMITE CAST AFTER UNKNOWN MINERAL Tsumeb Mine (Tsumcorp Mine), Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, Namibia Atypically large and perfect Calcite rhombs on a bright green Conichalcite(?) coated matrix. The Calcites are almost transparent and they possess unusual growth helices on the crystal faces. The back side of the specimen shows obvious signs of having been deposited upon another, now vanished, mineral with a botryoidal habit. Remarkably free from damage; this cabinet specimen measures 4½ x 4 x 2¾ inches thick. Provenance: Ex Stoudt Collection of Midland/Houston, Texas Estimate: $1500-$2000
41120 ORANGE MIMETITE Pingtouling Mine (Dashuihu Mine), Liannan Co., Qingyuan Prefecture, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China From the same occurrence as in Lot #41114, but exhibiting another coloration – bright orange, glassy crystals in the form of inverted hexagonal pyramids on an ocher matrix. The matrix has an unidentified green coating; probably a related lead mineral. Outstanding color and luster combined in one specimen. An exquisite specimen in pristine condition, it measures 2⅞ x 2¼ x 1¾ inches and has a custom labeled base. From a private European collection. Estimate: $10000-$15000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41121 AMERICAN MINERAL CLASSIC: BARITE Elk Creek locality, Dalzell, Meade Co., South Dakota, USA Distributed across some 160 kilometers of South Dakota is a shale layer from the Age of Dinosaurs, containing calcareous concretions: roughly spherical aglomerations of rock embedded in the less resistant shale/ mudstones. These concretions are broken open by collectors with sledgehammers and occasionally; there will be a hollow cavity lined with the yellow Calcite and root-beer colored Barite, seen here. Most of the few specimens that are found suffer from imperfections and/ or damage. This rare specimen escaped both of those fates and was featured in the American Mineral Treasures Exhibit at Tucson Arizona in February 2008. It is comprised of a single transparent prism of dark brown Barite with lovely side accents of golden yellow Calcite crystals. The Barite is 2½ inches in height and possesses some enormous growth helices on its faces. There is minor damage near the base and a ‘contact’ to the back side of the termination that does not affect display. On a custom acrylic base this fine specimen measures 2½ x 2 x 1¼ inches. Provenance: American Mineral Treasures Case, Tucson, Arizona, February 2008; Ex Stoudt Collection Estimate: $5000-$6000
41122 CLAY CENTER FLUORITE & CELESTITE Edward Kraemer & Sons Inc. Quarry (White Rock Quarry), Clay Center, Ottawa Co., Ohio, USA Displaying the uncommon “Root Beer” brown coloration that Clay Center Fluorites are renowned for, this exceptional specimen possesses Fluorite crystals of extreme size (1½ inches on edge) and perfection. In addition it is complimented by extremely fine, snowywhite Celestite blades up to 1¾ inches in length. Some breakage of Celestite blades, but that is normal for material from this quarry. It has a custom labeled base. Provenance: Ex Don & Gloria Olson Collection; Ex Daniel Trinchillo Jr. Collection Estimate: $20000-$24000
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41123 VIVID BRIGHT GREEN FLUORITE Riemvasmaak, Gordonia District, Namaqualand, Northern Cape Province, South Africa Brilliant green Fluorite group consisting of a very large octahedron with a couple of partial octahedra to one side. Intense emerald green color is quite striking and vivid – almost fluorescent. There are minute Pyrite crystals visible just below the surface of selected areas. Luster is of a ‘“hoar frost” type due to the presence of numerous trigons on the faces of the crystals. Fine condition. Comes with custom acrylic base and measures 6¼ x 5¼ x 4¼ inches. Estimate: $10000-$12000
41124 BLUE & PURPLE FLUORITE Bingham, Hansonburg District, Socorro Co., New Mexico, USA This specimen features one of the largest crystals known from this locality and the most unusual coloration – purple. One of the cubes measures 3½ inches on edge and the others are almost as large. In appearance, the crystals are simple cubes with light purple cores and powder-blue exteriors. They show multiple ‘stepped’ faces giving them a soft luster that is between shiny and matte in reflective quality. The pastel colors of the Fluorite contrasts nicely with the cream white of the Barite and Quartz matrix. There is a little druzy quartz on the matrix. The sides and back of the specimen shows signs of removal but the display side is in excellent condition. Custom acrylic base included. The specimen measures 11 inches high by 5 inches wide and is 5 inches in depth. Estimate: $8000-$10000
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41125 FLUORITE & QUARTZ Yaogangxian Mine, Yizhang Co., Chenzhou Prefecture, Hunan Province, People’s Republic of China Superb combination specimen from the Yaogangxian Mine. A perfect cube of Fluorite with: a green center, ‘phantom’ growth zones and a light violet exterior, is tucked in amongst a forest of stout colorless Quartz crystals. Completing the ensemble is a number of brassy Chacopyrites scattered over the dark matrix. This striking combination is in pristine condition. From the personal collection of Daniel Trinchillo Jr. through Dan Weinrich. It is larger than normal for specimens from this locality, measuring 6 x 4 x 3¾ inches and it has a custom labeled base. Provenance: Ex Daniel Trinchillo Jr. Collection, Ex Dan Weinrich Estimate: $15000-$18000
41126 FLUORITE ON LIT BASE Hardin Co., Illinois A stunning night accent piece is this illuminated group of Fluorite cubes, some up to 7 inches on edge. The Fluorite is from the now depleted deposits of Hardin County, Illinois; once available in profusion, now only occasionally encountered in collections. The Fluorite is almost colorless in the interior with a blue layer just beneath the deep violet surface. A small scattering of cream colored Calcites grace the top surfaces. On a custom base of feldspathic granite with garnet inclusions. Some damage to fluorites but this is virtually invisible when lit. Dimensions are 19½ x 13½ x 14 inches deep, including the custom lighted base. Estimate: $7500-$9500
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41127 FINE SKY-BLUE CELESTITE Sakoany mine, Katsepy Commune, Mitsinjo Department, Boeny Region, Mahajanga (Majunga) Province, Madagascar An exceptional example of the classic sky-blue Celestite from Madagascar. One free standing crystal is 4 inches long and there are a number (4+) of secondary crystals measuring up to 2⅜ inches in length. All are terminated, have very bright, glassy luster and are in perfect condition. This fine specimen measures 6¼ x 6 x 5¼ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $15000-$20000
41128 HUGE, SINGLE EMERALD CRYSTAL Coscuez Mine (Cosquez Mine), Muzo, Vasquez-Yacopí Mining District, Boyacá Department, Colombia Very sizable Emerald crystal with fine form and glassy luster from one of the top Colombian Emerald mines: Coscuez. Numerous transparent gemmy areas of light green with the hint of blue – very characteristic of Colombian material. Damage to one rear terminal edge and some minor nicking; otherwise fine. This sizable single crystal is an impressive 1½ x 1½ x 1¼ inches and weighs a very large 455 carats (91 grams). Accompanied by custom acrylic base. Estimate: $32000-$36000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41129 AQUAMARINE CLUSTER Nyet-Bruk, Braldu Valley, Skardu District, Baltistan, Northern Areas, Pakistan From one of the most dangerous parts of the world comes this cluster of powder-blue Aquamarine prisms. The group is composed of five crystals radiating from a common base. There are cloudy inclusions near the base changing to transparently gemmy near the terminations. The largest crystal is 4 inches in length and 2 inches across – quite sizable. There is a dusting of silvery muscovite blades on the back. Minor nicking to edges otherwise it is in excellent condition. Accession number 26A is on the bottom of the specimen indicating that it is from the collection of Ed David; former Science Advisor to President Richard Nixon. The group measures 4⅜ x 4⅛ x 3 inches and has a custom labeled base. Provenance: Ex Ed David Collection Estimate: $25000-$30000
41130 SHARP ‘DOUBLE’ TOPAZ CRYSTAL Mimoso do Sul, Espírito Santo, Southeast Region, Brazil This very sharp example of gem Topaz is highly unusual for being a multiply-terminated crystal as well as being quite large. The double termination is not apparent since the specimen appears to be two crystals side by side. When light is reflected from the analogous crystal faces it becomes apparent that there is only one crystal; it just has two distinct terminations next to each other. There are numerous inclusions in the lower portions of this pale green-gold-silvery massive gem. They vanish in the upper reaches of the crystal, as it becomes largely transparent. The surfaces are bright, sharp and lustrous with very few inconsequential nicks to some edges, otherwise fine condition. Edges are razor sharp, the faces are mirror bright, and there are fine growth helices on certain faces. Overall measurements are 5 x 5 x 3½ inches thick. In excellent condition. Provenance: Steve & Clara Smale Collection Estimate: $14000-$18000
41131 AMERICAN MINERAL CLASSIC: TOPAZ CLUSTER Maynard Claims, Bixby, Thomas Range, Juab Co., Utah, USA The Thomas Range of central Utah has long been a source of Topaz crystals the color of fine Madeira. Very few are larger that one inch in length. This golden jewel is not only 17∕16 long; it is doubly terminated as well. There is a small secondary crystal on the back side and some accessory Rhyolite matrix too. Featured in the American Mineral Treasures case at the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show, February 2008, it is from the Charles Key Collection. Overall measurements are 17∕16 x ⅝ x ½ inch and it is in excellent condition. Provenance: American Mineral Treasures Case, Tucson, Arizona, February 2008; Ex Charles Key Collection Estimate: $4000-$5000
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41132 PINK TOURMALINE Konar (Kunar; Konarh; Konarha) Nuristan Province, Afghanistan It is hard to reconcile the delicate pastel-pink coloration of this Tourmaline group with the mountainous and forbidding region of Afghanistan that produced it. That such a fragile treasure could pass through so many wild and desolate places and still manage to stay in one piece is almost miraculous. Even while growing, it was subject to the caprice of Nature. Originally attached by one end to a molten chamber wall; it was broken off while still forming and the broken end healed by continued growth, giving rise to terminal faces on both ends. In short; it is doubly terminated. In overall form, it is composed of a multitude of sub-parallel prisms with flat terminal faces on one end and pyramidal re-growth faces on the other. It bears a partial overcoat of lilac Lepidolite mica around the base. Looked at from the side, one can see a thin (approximately 1 mm) blue layer no more than 3 mm below the termination. Condition is uniformly fine with a little inconsequential nicking to an occasional crystal. Overall dimensions are 6⅛ x 2¼ x 2 inches and it sits upright in a custom labeled base. Estimate: $25000-$30000
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41133 GREEN TOURMALINE Santa Rosa Mine, Itambacuri, Minas Gerais, Southeast Region, Brazil From the Santa Rosa Mine of Brazil, comes this large and atypically unrepaired group of Tourmaline prisms, accented by a diminutive group of water-clear Quartz crystals to one side of the base. The Tourmalines are in a parallel-growth type of arrangement with mainly flat terminations. Color goes from light green with a blue core at the base to blue-green and ultimately a teal-blue in the upper parts of the crystals. Luster is bright and glassy on the prism faces while the terminations possess a ‘frosted’ appearance. A photo of this specimen was published in the Mineralogical Record. In excellent condition, overall measurements are 6½ x 1⅜ x 1⅛ inches and it has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $55000-$60000
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41135 SET OF THREE TOURMALINE CRYSTALS Santa Rosa Mine, Barra de Salinas Mine and Cruzeiro Mine of Brazil A multi-hued and multi-formed trio of gem Tourmalines from the land of the Cariocas: Brazil. Each of these colorful little treasures are quite different. #1 from the Santa Rosa Mine features a pink core and an aqua-blue exterior along with a flat termination. #2 from Barra de Salinas Mine is a scepter type with a pink basal stem and considerable ‘tube’ type inclusions becoming transparent green in the ‘head’ portion of the scepter – the termination is the more complex type with lots of growth figures on the faces. #3 starts off with a faint, gemmy pink, gradually becoming darker and shifting to a deep cranberry red for the final ⅛ of an inch leading to its flat termination. All three Tourmaline crystals are in excellent condition. Crystal measurements are: #1: 1⅞ x 7∕16 inches; #2: 2⅛ x ¾ inches; #3: 2 x 7∕16 inches. All three Tourmaline crystals sit on a single custom acrylic base. Estimate: $5500-$6500
41134 FINE MULTI-COLORED TOURMALINE CRYSTAL Cruzeiro Mine, São José da Safira, Minas Gerais, Southeast Region, Brazil A singly terminated Tourmaline prism from the collection of Steve & Clara Smale. It is a clean green at the base, fading to light blue, then colorless and finally to a cranberry red, complex termination. There is a faint striping of pink along one side of the entire crystal. A good portion of the specimen is clean and gemmy and would produce a fine facetted gemstone. In pristine condition, this bright and lustrous wonder is mounted upon a custom labeled acrylic base and measures 3¾ inches long by ⅞ inches across. Provenance: Steve & Clara Smale Collection Estimate: $7000-$10000
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41136 LARGE SINGLE DIAMOND CRYSTAL Premier Mine, Cullinan, Pretoria, Gauteng Province, South Africa A colorless, complete Diamond crystal of octahedral form from the collection of Dr. Miguel Romero Sanchez. The crystal is sharp with fine ‘trigon’ type growth features on the faces. Excellent adamantine luster and condition displayed by this 9.8 carat stone from the Premier Mine in South Africa. Accession Number 14272 is on the specimen. Provenance: Dr. Miguel Romero Sanchez Collection Estimate: $8000-$10000
41137 GREEN OCTAHEDRAL DIAMOND CRYSTAL Sierra Leone Of all the fancy diamond crystal colors, green is the second most rare (after red). This beautiful example is accompanied by G.I.A. report 1106199921 which describes it as a transparent yellowish green rough crystal of natural color, weighing 0.61 ct. Because diamonds are the only gemstones composed of a single element (carbon) and because their crystal lattice is so strong, only three atoms, nitrogen, hydrogen and boron, are small enough to work their way into the tetrahedral crystal arrangement. Nitrogen will cause a yellow or brown coloration, whilst the green hue can be caused by atomic or gamma radiation. This exquisite natural gem crystal measures 4.1 x 3.74 x 5.06 mm. Estimate: $1500-$2000 A 19.5% Buyer’s Premium ($9 min.) Applies To All Lots
41138 HISTORIC DIAMONDS FROM THE KUNZ COLLECTION India A historic label and an antique pasteboard box containing 9 diamonds from India, probably from the famous Golconda District of India. What makes the items significant is the accompanying George Kunz label. During his lengthy and prodigious career George Kunz was: Research Curator at the American Museum of Natural History; Gemologist and Vice-President for Tiffany et Cie; Author of numerous books and articles as well as a prolific correspondent with the luminaries of his day. The nine Diamonds of this lot possess an elongated ‘rice-grain’ type of morphology up to 7/16ths of an inch long and some of these nine Diamond specimens would be considered ‘fancy’ in color as well as quite gemmy and transparent. Label has one crease in it but otherwise is in good condition. Provenance: George F. Kunz Collection Estimate: $3000-$4000
41139 EXCEPTIONAL “BRANDBERG” SCEPTER CLUSTER Brandberg area, Brandberg District, Erongo Region, Namibia From the remote reaches of the Namibian Desert comes one of the largest and finest ‘Brandberg’ Quartz specimens ever found – it has superb form, mirror bright luster, and exceptional size. It consists of 3 major crystals: #1 is 11½ inches long and is a doubly terminated scepter with two heads composed of amethystine and smokey Quartz; #2 is 9 inches long and also doubly terminated; and finally #3 which is singly terminated, 4 inches long and has a very small amount of damage to the tip. The cluster has numerous internal negative crystal inclusions along with a few areas included with minute, silvery ‘Lepidocrocite’ needles. There are some amethystine areas that appear to be a deep blue-purple color. This exceptional specimen was excavated in early 2008 and shown for the first time in public here. The condition is excellent, particularly for a specimen of its size, color and luster. Overall, it measures 11½ x 7½ x 6½ inches and has a custom labeled base. A truly gorgeous and unique specimen. Estimate: $80000-$100000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41140 CALCITE ON AMETHYST — COLOR & CONTRAST Artigas, Artigas Department, Uruguay This fine combination specimen clearly demonstrates the sequence of formation that is often only seen as remnants. The large (7+ inches) Calcite crystal group is partially overcoated with a thin layer of colorless and amethystine Quartz. The rich, honey-colored Calcites are lustrous and quite ‘gemmy’ while the Amethyst is a dark, transparent, ‘Royal’ purple that is characteristic of the best quality Uruguayan material. One Calcite is free-standing, the rest are attached at both ends. In pristine condition, this fine specimen measures 12½ x 10¼ x 4¾ inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $12000-$15000
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41141 LARGE AMETHYST CLUSTER Anahí Mine, La Gaiba District, Sandoval Province, Santa Cruz Department, Bolivia A massive group composed of seven major Amethyst crystals rising from a common origin. The coloration gradually changes from colorless to a deep transparent purple at the terminations. There are discrete areas of smoky/citrine Quartz providing ample evidence that this specimen is from the famous Anahí Ametrine Mine. Surfaces vary from complex along the prism faces to simple, sharp and planar at the terminations. Form and luster are uncharacteristically good for specimens of this size. Production from the locality has been dwindling in recent years and fine, stately, aesthetic specimens such as this are the exception. Minor damage in inconsequential spots but otherwise the condition is exceptionally good. Overall dimensions are 13 x 12 x 9¼ inches and it has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $8000-$10000
41142 UNCOMMON AMETHYST Santa Maria do Jetiba, Espírito Santo, Southeast Region, Brazil Amethyst specimens from this locality are rarely seen. It is unclear whether this is due to scarcity at the source or, simply, high demand in the area. Whatever the cause, the unique character of this example deserves closer attention. The matrix of colorless Quartz with numerous iron-bearing fractures grades into multiple scepter type terminations – some of them with extensive ‘fenster’ type growth. Termination are a gemmy bluepurple with some golden inclusions inside negative crystals. Brilliant glassy luster and several great growth ‘hillocks’. Minor damage to a couple of lower level crystals but overall fine condition. This uncommon Amethyst specimen measures 8 inches tall, 5 inches across and is 5½ inches deep. It sits upright on a custom labeled base. Estimate: $6000-$8000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41143 AMETHYST Anahí Mine, La Gaiba District, Sandoval Province, Santa Cruz Department, Bolivia Illuminated Amethyst crystal group from the Anahí Ametrine Mine in Bolivia. The group features a number of stubby Amethyst prisms; the largest of which is approximately 7 inches in length and 3¾ inches in diameter. Color ranges from colorless/white at the base, grading to deep purple at the terminations. Some polished and some natural terminal faces – most are in good condition. Sitting on a custom black granite illuminated base, it is 14 inches high (from the bottom of the base to tip of the specimen), 10½ inches wide and 10 inches deep. Estimate: $4000-$6000
41144 UNUSUAL CITRINE GEODE Rio Grade do Sul, South Region, Brazil This aesthetic and unusual Citrine geode is from the Uruguay/Brazil border. Unlike most of the Citrine geodes from this area, this one features some rarely seen accessory white Calcite crystals on one side of the cavity, looking like white flowers. The cavity itself is unusually wide, allowing light to enter from all angles, highlighting the gemmy crystal interior. The Citrine is a rich, dark amber hue with golden highlights. The crystals are sharp, lustrous and completely cover the interior of the piece, and the white agate rim has been hand polished. The condition is excellent and the overall measurements are 34 x 10½ x 16 inches. Estimate: $2500-$3500
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41145 CITRINE ON METAL BASE Minas Gerais, Southeast Region, Brazil A large (21 x 6½ inches) doubly-terminated Citrine crystal on a custom base. The Citrine varies in color from almost colorless to golden yellow and it displays several polished faces as well as a multitude of natural ones. The custom steel base has been treated to resemble bronze and it incorporates several lights to illuminate the interior of the piece. The condition is fine. Overall dimensions are 25 inches high by 10 inches wide by 9½ inches deep. Estimate: $4500-$6000
41146 CITRINE CATHEDRAL PAIR Rio Grade do Sul, South Region, Brazil Matched halves of a single Citrine geode that has been sawn in two. There are several white Calcite crystals festooning the interior of this Madeira gold confection; a situation not often seen in Citrine geodes. Overall dimensions of one-half are 48½ inches high x 8 inches deep; the other half is slightly higher at 49½ inches high and is also 8 inches deep. Estimate: $4500-$6000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41147 CITRINE ON LIT BLACK BASE Brazil Consisting of a single massive Citrine crystal, this illuminated lapidary confection can serve as either a room accent piece or a night-light for the guest wing of the mansion. The coloration gradually changes from a light golden hue at the base to an almost smoky tint at the sharply limned terminations. Luster is fine and the overall condition is excellent. The crystal measures 17 inches high by 8 inches wide by 6½ inches long, without the base. The base itself adds an additional 6¼ inches in height. Estimate: $6000-$8000
41148 ROSE QUARTZ “SKI-HAT” ON SMOKY QUARTZ Pitorro Mine, Galiléia, Doce Valley, Minas Gerais, Southeast Region, Brazil Looking for all the world like a pink, banded ski-hat, complete with ‘top-knot’, jauntily askew on a snow-boarders’ pointy little head; this composite of two types of quartz juxtaposes the smooth, planar surfaces of the tan, almost citrine, Smoky Quartz against the lustrous, almost druzy complexity of the Rose Quartz terminations. The single smoky prism rises out a matrix of mixed white Albite and silvery Muscovite blades. The Rose Quartz rises up the back side of the termination to spill over the top giving rise to the ‘top-knot’ effect. In excellent condition with brilliant luster, this specimen measures 7¼ x 4 x 4 inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $15000-$18000
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41149 SMOKY QUARTZ “CROCODILE” Minas Gerais, Southeast Region, Brazil A doubly-terminated, complex Smoky Quartz crystal whose many multiple faces and terminations resemble the pattern and texture of crocodile skin. This unusual crystal ranges in color from an almost colorless light tan to a dark smoky brown. The luster is very glassy and there is very little, if any, damage. It is mounted on a acrylic base for vertical display and it measures an impressive 26½ x 15 x 3 inches and weighs 33 pounds. Estimate: $8000-$10000
41150 STALACTITE QUARTZ CATHEDRAL Rio Grade do Sul, South Region, Brazil A frost covered grotto in miniature; this crystalline curiosity starkly conveys a sense of Winter’s magic: all in a compact space that is only 1½ feet tall. The colorless, druzy Quartz lining possesses the same austere, sparkling appearance as an ice and frost covered hollow in some remote cliff face. This mineralogical equivalent to a Bonsai tree measures 19 inches high by 9½ inches wide by 8 inches deep. It is in excellent condition. Estimate: $2000-$3000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41151 CLUSTER OF QUARTZ CRYSTALS Jim Coleman Mine, Mount Ida, Montgomery Co., Arkansas, USA This fine group of water clear Arkansas Quartz consists of several large, robust crystals measuring up to 12¾ inches in length. The base of this massive cluster is the typical milky white quartz which leads out into numerous individual crystals that become waterclear towards the terminations. Most of the terminations are natural with some re-polished faces. The complete specimen is in fine condition with a couple of minor contact areas where some crystals grew next to others. The overall measurements are 13 X 13 X 10½ inches. Estimate: $1800-$2500
41152 QUARTZ CLUSTER WITH BLUE CALCITE BASE Brazil Clear and colorless Quartz crystal group on an illuminated blue Calcite base. This Brazilian Quartz cluster includes a main crystal that is 10½ inches high and 5½ inches in diameter as its central focus, along with a secondary crystal leaning out at almost a right angle. Both crystals are included near the bottom and they gradually become transparent near the terminations. The crystal faces have been polished but are in generally fine condition. The illuminated blue Calcite base is somewhat translucent in its own right, giving the piece a contrasting ‘two-tone’ effect. Overall dimensions are 16 inches high by 13 inches wide by 8 inches deep, including the base. Estimate: $4500-$6000
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41153 SIX-RAYED RUTILATED “STAR” IN QUARTZ Novo Horizonte, Bahia, Northeast Region, Brazil A ‘Blonde Star with a heart of stone’ would be an apt, if somewhat facetious, title for this captivating lapidary treasure. Captured for eternity in light Smoky Quartz are thousands of light golden Rutile needles arranged in a six-rayed pattern emanating from a central metallic, black Hematite crystal. This specimen is truly a rarity; less than 1% of all Rutilated Quartz mined would yield a ‘star’, let alone a fine strong ‘star’ as seen here. The hairlike Rutile needles achieve lengths up to 4 inches. Carved and polished into a free-form sculpture, this shining jewel measures 4 x 2½ x 3 inches and has a custom labeled base. Estimate: $4000-$5000
41154 “EYES” AGATE — UNUSUAL STALACTITE SLICE Serra Geral Formation, Ametista do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, South Region, Brazil This melange of quartz and agate owes its unusual ‘eyed’ patterning to a multitude of Agate stalactites that formed the cores for further crystal growth. When cut and polished, the stalactites produce “eyes” of grey-blue translucent agate outlined with a thin layer of cocoa brown and pale pink, all of which is surrounded by colorless to pale violet crystalline Quartz with terminations extending into the open spaces or “vugs”. This one-of-a-kind agate slice was from the center core of a rare and unusual agate nodule, that was sliced and then both sides were polished. In excellent condition, it measures 28½ x 22½ inches and is ¾ inches thick. It is accompanied by the standard Brazilian wood base. Estimate: $8000-$10000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41156 “LAGUNA” AGATE SLICE Estacion Ojo Laguna, Chihuahua, Mexico A large and thick slice of Laguna Agate from the premier assemblage of Mexican minerals: The Dr. Miguel Romero Sanchez Collection. It shows the fine concentric banding and multiple colors that the Laguna material is noted for. Colors include: Mauve, light blue, reddish brown, orange and white with a colorless, crystalline center and terminated quartz crystals. It is polished on one side, with the back side an as-sawn surface. It bears two accession numbers. One is the original Romero Collection Number 3441, and the other is the University of Arizona/Romero Collection number of 15011-97. There is also a University of Arizona label bearing the same number. In fine condition, it measures 5 x 3½ x ¾ inches thick. Provenance: Dr. Miguel Romero Sanchez Collection Estimate: $1500-$2500 41155 LAGUNA AGATE Estacion Ojo Laguna, Chihuahua, Mexico From the now worked out and famous Laguna agate locality in Chihuahua, Mexico; this large piece of an agate nodule has been sawn and polished on one side to reveal a great pattern of concentric bands of mauve, blue red, honey-gold, brown and colorless agate. The center is hollow and lined with druzy quartz. From the collection of Hub & Grace Dafoe (of Mother’s Cookies fame), it was collected pre-1970. The Laguna Agate measures 6 x 4 and is 1¼ inches thick and is in fine condition. Provenance: Ex Hub & Grace Dafoe Collection Estimate: $1000-$1200
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41157 CONDOR AGATE San Rafael, Mendoza Province, Cuyo Region, Argentina An unusually elongated example of the uncommon Condor agate from Argentina. Concentric bands of: blood red, ocher yellow, bright orange and deep black with a colorless crystalline center form the pattern of this exotic agate. Polished on one side; it stands on a custom acrylic base and measures 9½ x 1¾ x 2¼ inches deep without the base. In extremely fine condition. Estimate: $1500-$2000
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41158 LARGE CRAZY LACE AGATE SLAB Roy Hill Station, Pilbara Region, Western Australia Most commonly associated with volcanic locations, agates can also be found in metamorphic rocks, such as those of the Western Australian Hammersley Range. This polished slab was carved from a single boulder of crazy lace agate, a rare banded variety of chalcedony. It displays an astonishing array of yellow, gold, orange, red, and grey form intricate bands that edge the nearly translucent white agate. Some vugs are lined with quartz crystals giving the slab further dimensionality. This incredible slab overwhelms at first sight, a crazy paving of colored bands, speckles and orbicules: it looks almost as though one were observing from a great height the mountainous landscape of some exotic planet. Highly polished to display this incredible patterning to its best advantage, the slab has been left with a naturally undulating contour and contrastingly rough and unpolished edge, and measures 47 x 31 x 1 inches. Estimate: $3000-$4000
41159 MARRA MAMBA TIGER EYE SLAB Mt Brockman Station, Western Australia Sliced and polished, this Marra Mamba slab is an incredible canvas of natural abstract art. Bands of deep olive and bottle green, blood red and metallic black mingle with the shimmering golden tiger eye and orange-brown limonite (goethite with other hydrated iron oxides such as lepidocrocite or jarosite) to incredible effect. Left with a naturally contoured edge, this beautiful slab measures 39 x 14 x ⅞ inches including the reinforced metal back support. Estimate: $7000-$9000 41160 MARRA MAMBA TIGER EYE SLAB Mt Brockman Station, Western Australia It seems hardly possible that the colors and patterns on this slab were produced by nature, but millions of years’ of tectonic and mineralogical activity in one small region of Western Australia have produced Nature’s finest abstract artwork. The colors flow into one another like indissoluble oil paints creating a wonderful “waterfall” effect that is fascinating to behold. Left with a naturally contoured edge, this beautiful slab measures 30¾ x 11½ x ⅞, including the reinforced metal back support. Estimate: $4000-$6000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41161 LARGE TIGER IRON SLAB Port Hedland, Western Australia Found in a more northerly location than the Marra Mamba tiger’s eye, this tiger iron slab shows what happens when the layers of tiger’s eye, hematite and the other constituent minerals are subjected to much heavier tectonic disruption and pressure. The bands become much narrower and more defined and in place of the soft flowing colors of Marra Mamba tiger’s eye, tiger iron presents strong and sharply delineated layers of golden tiger’s eye, red jasperlite and shimmering black hematite. The uncanny regularity of the undulating ribbons of color only adds to the aesthetic appeal, shown to its finest advantage in this highly polished piece of natural abstract art. It is now believed that this banded, iron-rich material represents a “true fossil” of one of the oldest life forms known. During the Archean period (3.8 – 2.5 billion years ago) single celled organisms known as Stromatolites managed to prosper because they had an open niche with no competition. These simple organisms were (and still are) the Prokaryotes or Cyanobacteria; life forms so simple they had no cellular nucleus at all. Billions of years ago, huge colonies of stromatolites turned seawater, sunlight and atmospheric carbon dioxide into the first atmospheric oxygen this planet has known. This uncommonly large slab measures 56 x 32½ x ⅝ inches. Estimate: $9000-$12000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41162 FIERY CUPRITE & CHRYSOCOLLA SCULPTURE — “SONORA SUNSET” Millpillas Mine, Sonora, Mexico This spectacular “Sonoran Sunset” sculpture is a combination of bright red-orange Chalcotricite and rich red Cuprite captured in a matrix of tranquil robin’s egg blue Chrysocolla and accented by an unusual seam of deep green, chatoyant Malachite. This unbelievable, completely natural, color combination came from deep within the Millpillas Mine. The rare, intensely hued, mineral zone was discovered only after going through hundreds of feet of overburden while excavating a mine shaft – a truly unique, oneof-a-kind occurrence. Because it is a fully operational copper mine, obtaining any of this material is very difficult – let alone a large boulder. Skillfully carved and handpolished mirror-bright, this sculpture is a testament to the wonders of Nature and the kaleidascope of colors that she provides. Overall measurements are 18 x 12 x 6 inches and it weighs approximately 50 pounds. Estimate: $12000-$15000
41163 RUBY IN ZOISITE – SPLIT NODULE Tanzania A single, hexagonal ruby crystal 4 1/2 inches across, split into two halves, embedded in mint green Zoisite with black Biotite flakes arranged in swirling bands. The deep crimson Ruby crystal is not visible when the two halves are joined. Overall the nodule is 6½ x 5½ x 3½ inches high, and weighs approximately 7½ pounds (3.4 kg). The ruby fluoresces red in UV light and is very well formed. Estimate: $3000-$4000
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41164 POLISHED LABRADORITE FREEFORM SCULPTURE Madagascar Labradorite is a rare member of the feldspar group of minerals, crystallized from the molten magma that forms beneath the surface of the earth. Its characteristic green-grey appearance does not seem especially remarkable, until a specimen is worked to a high polish, such as the example here, and the light hits the surface in such a way as to bring to life the incredible shimmering labradorescence that makes it such a popular mineral. Twinning on the microscopic level is responsible for the iridescent sheets of color that ripple across the surface of this stone; the alternating parallel layers of feldspar crystals selectively reflect only those light waves of the proper wavelength or color. This is not seen on all labradorite specimens – some exhibit no areas of iridescence at all – but the present example possesses large areas of crystal coverage on all sides which display brilliant flashes of gold, green and blue all over its surfaces; highly polished, the better to display this wonderful natural phenomenon, it measures an impressive 11 x 9 x 5 inches. Estimate: $1600-$2000
41165 RAINBOW OBSIDIAN FREEFORM Mexico Caused by the swift cooling of volcanic lava, obsidian is not in fact a mineral but a form of glass, with no true crystals. The cooling of the lava is so rapid – even from the typical temperatures between 780 and 820 Celsius – that true crystals have insufficient time to form, but in some instances the similarly-structured crystallites, or grains, form parallel to the flow structure creating the ghostly colored banding suggestive of a rainbow. Shimmering seemingly just below the surface of this highly polished freeform are visible shades of green, blue, yellow and purple, and the rock has been artfully carved to highlight their ethereal patterning in this specimen, measuring 7½ x 4½ inches. Estimate: $1800-$2400
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41166 POLISHED FLUORESCENT FREEFORM Sterling Hill Mine, Ogdensburg, New Jersey, USA The Sterling Hill mine in the Bucolic Hills of New Jersey is an old silver mine now closed, but famous for having produced some of the finest fluorescent minerals to be found anywhere in the world. By day or tungsten light, this unprepossessinglooking rock is mostly colored a dull gray with red-brown patches and black accents; under the black light of short wave ultraviolet rays, however, it bursts into vibrant and fiery life in eye-popping shades of green and red, testament to the fluorescing presence of willemite and calcite. Willemite is a form of zinc silicate, and the deposits in the Sterling Hill Mine and nearby Franklin Furnace are regarded as the finest in the world. This good-sized specimen measures 6½ x 6½ x 3¾ inches. Estimate: $300-$400
41167 FLUORESCENT HYALITE-OPAL Chalk Mountain, Spruce Pine, North Carolina This beautiful slab of hyalite opal is mostly white, but generously veined with grey and scintillating colorless crystal points around its edge. The top surface is carpeted, however, with a profusion of delicate pale green-blue crystals that spring to life with an unexpected vibrancy when exposed to short wave Ultraviolet light. Specimens of hyalite-opal from this locale are said to be the most highly fluorescent opal in the world, and this goodsized example measures 8½ x 6⅞ x 2¼ inches. Estimate: $550-$750
41168 FLUORESCING SODALITE SPECIMEN Ilímaussaq Complex, Tunuliarfik, Greenland The Ilímaussaq complex is an unusual mid-Proterozoic igneous intrusion located at the southwestern tip of Greenland, famous for its fine fluorescing mineral specimens. Unlike many other such minerals, this sodalite specimen is in fact rather an attractive rock even under normal lighting conditions. The grey surface is speckled with white and one face covered in crystals of a lovely soft green color. Bath it in the invisible rays of long wave light, however, and it springs dramatically to life as the green crystals glow with a fiery orange color. This form of the mineral is known as hackmanite sodalite and also exhibits tenebrescence, the ability to change color in sunlight, a characteristic exploited in the manufacture of photosensitive sunglasses. This good-sized specimen measures 7¼ x 5½ x 5½ inches. Estimate: $500-$600
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GEMS
41169 STUNNING BLACK OPAL CABOCHON Lightning Ridge, Australia Precious opal is a mineraloid gem composed of amorphous hydrated silicon dioxide. 90% of opal is “light” opal, white or crystalline, but a small proportion, found most abundantly in the deposits at Lightning Ridge in New South Wales, is black opal. Opal occurs here in irregular nodules or thin seams, most often at the junction of soft grey clay stone and the overlaying sandstone. This extraordinary example is from that famous locale, and has been painstakingly carved and polished into a beautiful cabochon. The natural play of colors have been carefully followed by the master lapidarist who prepared it to make it appear as though one thin slab sits on top of another. In reality, however, this is all one stone: the background sparkles with tiny glittering specks, predominantly of a red-orange color, whilst the raised part of the cabochon boasts a riot of scintillating shades, from golden yellow to deep purple, via green, blue, red and orange. This amazing coloring is formed by microscopic spheres of silica grown around a central nucleus, and the play of color is the result of light passing between these spheres and through the spheres themselves. The range of observable colors is directly related to the size of the spheres; for example, to appear red, they must be comparatively large (0.0003 mm), an unusual occurrence and therefore all the more to be valued in such profusion on this specimen. The cabochon weighs 154.34 ct and measures 3 x 1⅝ x ¼ inches and it is accompanied by a certificate from the AGTA Gemological Testing Center. Estimate: $60000-$75000
41170 RARE STONE: BLACK OPAL “CAT’S EYE”, 1.95 CT. Lightning Ridge, Australia The phenomenon of chatoyancy is displayed by a number of minerals to varying degrees. Microscopic parallel inclusions give rise to bands of reflected light that seem to shift around as the material is moved. Certain inclusion bearing gem materials also exhibit this behavior: Ruby and Sapphire frequently show this effect. Much less commonly seen is chatoyancy in precious Opal. In this instance the effect is manifested by the presence of a shifting, green “cat’s-eye” that moves from side to side as the elongated, oval cabochon is rocked back and forth. The “eye” in this stone appears as an irregular green line that floats over a dark, blue-black body color showing occasional flashes of blue and purple. This very unusual stone weighs 1.95 carats and measures 12.2 x 6.1 mm. Estimate: $1500-$2000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41171 RARE GEMSTONE: DANBURITE CRYSTAL, 63.44 CT. Morogoro Region, Tanzania First found in Tanzania in late 2006, so far this rare and exotic gem material has only been produced in small quantities. While golden Danburite has been occasionally noted from Myanmar, production has not been very great from there either. Which is a pity, since the material possesses good hardness and optical properties. The crystal seen here is has been pictured in Gems & Gemology, Volume 44, #2, Summer 2008. In appearance, it shows a golden coloration and silky growth tubes that seem to be crystallographically oriented along twin planes. There is some iron staining in exterior fractures but in general the crystal is quite clean. A genuine find for the rare gem materials collector, this singular crystal measures 35 x 27 x 7 mm and weighs 63.44 cts (12.68 grams). Provenance: Gem & Gemology, Volume 44, #2, Summer 2008 Estimate: $2000-$2500
41172 RARE GEMSTONE: DANBURITE CAT’S EYE, 8.22 CT. Morogoro Region, Tanzania Cut from the same material as the previous lot, this ‘cats-eye’ gem features the same golden yellow coloration and fine growth tube inclusion. The tubes are responsible for the silky sheen as well as the ‘cats-eye’ effect. The ‘eye’ is fairly well defined and centered. There are a couple of inclusions; one towards the girdle and the other is a small linear inclusion off to one side. Neither are particularly noticeable. Even though this is a rare gem collectors dream, this stone is actually wearable due to the high hardness and durability of the material: an added bonus for the lucky owner. Along with the uncut crystal of Lot #41171, this cabochon Danburite was featured and photographed in the Summer 2008 edition of Gems & Gemology, Vol. 44, #2. This rare and unusual gemstone measures 13.6 x 12.2 mm and weighs 8.22 carats. Provenance: Gem & Gemology, Volume 44, #2, Summer 2008 Estimate: $5500-$6500 74
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41173 RARE STONE: IOLITE CAT’S EYE 30.70 CT. Madagascar Iolite or “Water Sapphire” is an almost spot-on stand-in for Tanzanite. Its blue-violet color and strong pleochroism are very similar in appearance. While Iolite is occasionally seen in the stocks of exotic stone dealers, ‘cats-eye’ stones are a considerably more uncommon item. This oval cabochon features a golden tan body color with violet/blue edges – quite unusual. The ‘eye’ is well centered and there are numerous fracture type inclusions – not particularly of significance in ‘eye’ type stones. Quite sizable at 30.70 carats, this rare gemstone measures 21.2 x 18.0 mm. Estimate: $4000-$5000
41174 RARE STONE: TRANSLUCENT “JELLY” SUGILITE, 12.83 CT Wessels Mine, Hotazel, Kalahari Manganese Fields, Northern Cape Province, South Africa Probably one of the most striking colors to be encountered in natural gem materials is the cerise/fuchsia combination seen in the best of Sugilite. This exotically hued gemstone is found only in a few remote South African manganese mines. The finest of the material possesses both a purity of coloration and a translucence that is described by the miners as “jelly”: an apt term for sure. This teardrop shaped cabochons’ translucence is such that the stone almost seems to glow. The rough that was fashioned into this wonder was mined 3 years ago – less than 100 kilograms were found. This polished masterpiece weighs 12.83 carats and measures 23.0 x 15.2 mm. Estimate: $3000-$4000
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41176 FINE, NATURAL, UNTREATED RUBY GEMSTONE, 2.02 CT: NEW DISCOVERY Winza, Mpwapwa District, Dodoma Region, Tanzania From the new find in Winza, Tanzania, where the miners are using picks and shovels to excavate pits – searching for the elusive gem crystal. Occasionally they find a red corundum crystal with magnificent color, as was the case with this fine Ruby. The color in this exceptional gemstone is a transparent bright RED with a slight pinkish cast. Cushion style of cut with a mixed brilliant crown, this Ruby is certified by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) to be a ‘natural untreated ruby’ with no indications of heating. The Rubies from this locality are some of the most transparent ever seen but since it is eluvial deposit and it is being mined on an ad-hoc basis, there is no way to determine the overall size of the deposit. This bright and lively gem weighs 2.02 carats, measures 7.91 x 5.51 x 4.47 mm, and is accompanied by AGTA Certificate # 99006811. Estimate: $20000-$25000
41175 PERSIAN TURQUOISE NUGGET & CABOCHON — ROUGH & CUT SET Neyshabur, Persia For centuries, Persia has furnished the finest Turquoise in the world. Renowned for its consistency of color as well as high hardness, Persian Turquoise is the standard that all other Turquoise is measured against. This lot is what is known as a “Rough & Cut” set: a finished gemstone and the material from which it was cut. The cabochon is a deep, Robin’s Egg Blue with a small amount of matrix off to one side and some other minor inclusions on the other side. It displays a fine, bright polish and proper proportions. It measures 31 x 19.8 mm and weighs 44.68 carats. The rough material was mined in the early 1980’s: no material of this size has been mined for the last 30 years. There are a couple of conchoidal fractures on the edge; they are there to establish the quality of the piece. All other surfaces are natural. A rare opportunity to possess such a pairing. The Turquoise Nugget measures 67 x 47 x 41 mm and weighs 133.24 grams.. Estimate: $5000-$6000
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41177 RARE STONE: AMBLYGONITE, 10.32 CT. Brazil Amblygonite: a complex phosphate mineral, rarely forms transparent crystals clean enough for faceting. On the infrequent occasions that it does occur in transparent pieces, they usually display some unattractive color or a lack of any color. This example of Amblygonite is actually attractive – cut as a trillion gemstone, and colored a light aqua blue-green, it is surprisingly clean with only a minor amount of cleavage plane inclusions. Rare and esthetic, this fine gemstone measures 15.9 x 15.2 mm and weighs 10.32 carats. Estimate: $2000-$2500
41178 NEW FIND: SPESSARTITE, 14.68 CT. Nani, Loliondo, Arusha Region, Tanzania The absolutely stunning tangerine-orange color of the new Spessartite material from Loliando has taken the gemological world by storm. Unfortunately; most of the material is too heavily included to facet into gemstones. That is why this stone, at almost fifteen carats, is a monster for the material; most of these gemstones are five carats or less. It was cut in the cushion style and, although it has some typical inclusions, it is still bright and lively; particlarly for a stone of its size. Measuring an impressive 17.3 x 12.2 mm, it weighs 14.68 carats. Estimate: $5000-$6500
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41179 RARE STONE: PHENACITE, 25.57 CT. Burma Highly revered by the crystal healing fraternity is the rare Beryllium mineral: Phenacite. This colorless oval brilliant is one of the largest stones to be cut from pre-embargo Burmese material. It is eye-clean and well proportioned giving it a liveliness and brilliance not often seen in this material. This rare gemstone measures 21.2 x 18.8 mm and weighs an impresive 25.57 carats. Estimate: $3000-$4000
41180 NATURAL PURPLE SPINEL: 6.75 CT. Sri Lanka Natural purple Spinel from Sri Lanka, it is well cut as an oval brilliant. It features a medium purple-violet coloration, good transparency and a small amount of zoning. There are a few minor, pin-point inclusions but is otherwise clean. Overall measurements are 13.3 x 10.0 mm and it weighs 6.75 carats. Estimate: $3500-$4500
41182 CUSTOM CUT IMPERIAL TOPAZ: 8.36 CT. Ouro Prêto, Brazil Favored by the Tsarinas of the Russian Imperial Court, “Imperial” Topaz is characterized by body color ranging from light golden through deep reddish-orange and ultimately to a reddish-purple. The only current source for this rare and costly variety of Topaz, is the Ouro Prêto region of Brazil and production is severely limited. All of which makes this eye-clean oval brilliant with classic Madeira color a rather desirable commodity. It was cut by Spectrum Award winner Mark Kaufman, so the quality of finish is excellent. It measures 14.7 x 10.5 mm and weighs a respectable 8.36 carats. Estimate: $6000-$8000
41183 LARGE RUBELLITE TOURMALINE, 15.40 CT. Nigeria Some gem source localities have produced consistently for centuries. Others have all of the transitory qualities of a summer rain in the desert. Such is the case with the Nigerian locality that furnished the raw materials for this rosy gem: it was exhausted within 3 years. Characteristic of the material from this find is tawny rose coloration that is quite distinctive. Spectrum award winner Mark Kaufman chose to cut this stone as an oval brilliant with a pineapple crown. There are small inconsequential inclusions out near the girdle; otherwise this bright and lively stone is “eye-clean”. It weighs a sizable 15.40 carats and measures 16.5 x 14.9 mm. Estimate: $1800-$2400
41181 DEEP GREEN TSAVORITE GARNET: 5.64 CT Tanzania Tsavorite; the clean green variety of Grossular Garnet from Tanzania, has established a firm footing in the world of fine facetted gemstones. Unfortunately, its popularity has not been matched by production sufficient to keep up with demand. Stones such as this 5.64 oval brilliant are becoming harder to come by these days. This sizable stone displays the deep chrome green that this material is famous for. There are some minor veil type inclusions, otherwise the stone is clean. Mining in the area is becoming harder and more dangerous as near-surface material becomes worked out. This fine gemstone measures 13.4 x 8.8 mm and weighs 5.64 carats. Estimate: $10000-$12000
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41184 ONE-OF-A-KIND FACETTED BLUE ZIRCON: 40.5 CTS Kampuchea (Cambodia) One of the prettier gemstones is Zircon; a natural Zirconium mineral that is very similar in refractive index and dispersion to its synthetic analogue – Cubic Zirconia (CZ). Large pieces of natural Zircon gemstone material are few and far between. Which is why this is an exceptional stone, even considering that it was cut for weight; in this case 40.5 carats. The color exhibited by this Zircon is a light to medium blue with no apparent zoning. There is a minor ‘veil’ type inclusion, but it is out near the girdle where it is unobtrusive. The girdle features what appears to be ‘Naturals’ – minor remnants of the original crystal surface and there is a small nick as well. On the pavilion there is a tiny pit; also probably a remnant of the original surface. It is cut as an oval cushion and measures 18.6 x 15.5 mm. An exceptional gemstone, not often seen in this size level. Estimate: $16000-$20000
41185 RARE STONE: BYTOWNITE, 122.98 CT. Santiago Papasquiaro, Durango, Mexico Bytownite is a rare member of the Plagioclase Feldspar group of minerals. Very limited in occurrence; the Mexican locality produces less than 1 kg of rough per year. This is a very large stone for such uncommon material. This gem is a light chardonnay color and is eye-clean. There is no zoning or inclusions visible without magnification. Excellent cut and polish, this rare gemstone measures 38.7 x 29.1 mm and weighs an impressive 122.98 carats. Estimate: $1500-$2000
41186 RARE STONE: VERY LARGE SCAPOLITE, 72.1 CT. Morogoro Region, Tanzania A rarely seen gemstone is Scapolite from the Morogoro region of Tanzania. With a medium golden body color this custom cut oval looks a lot like a Citrine, but it is a lot rarer. This very large example of the species has a few pin-point inclusions and one very difficult to spot linear inclusion to one side of the table but overall, it is quite clean and bright. It measures 42.3 x 21.3 mm and it weighs a hefty 72.1 carats. Estimate: $6000-$7500
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41187 VERY LARGE HESSONITE GARNET, 29.72 CT Sri Lanka The Island of Serendib (now Sri Lanka) was the birthplace of this very large Hessonite Garnet. In spite of its size, it still has extremely bright coloration displaying a strong reddish orange hue. The oval, brilliant cut gemstone has a number of bubble type inclusions but they are most visible with edge illumination; therefore not of any particular consequence. There is a slight nick at the edge of the table; not a serious matter. Overall measurements of this sizable gemstone are 21.1 x 19.5 mm and it weighs a hefty 29.72 carats. Estimate: $2200-$2800
41188 RARE STONE: HIDDENITE, 41.53 CT. Brazil Hiddenite; named for an exploration geologist working for Thomas Edison, is the green variety of Spodumene, a Lithium Aluminum Silicate. There are not a lot of localities for this gem material and production has never been very great from any of them. As Hiddenites go, this is a sizable gemstone; it is cut in an oval brilliant style and features a light, minty green body color. There are a couple of inclusions; one, near the culet and the other out towards the girdle: otherwise clean and bright. This large, rare gemstone measures 25.2 x 19.0 mm and weighs 41.53 carats. Estimate: $3000-$3800
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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LAPIDARY ART
41189 UNIQUE AMETHYST & CALCITE TABLE Toldinho, Santa Catarina, South Region, Brazil Cut and polished to serve as the centerpiece for a glasstopped table, this exceptionally large Amethyst geode features a number of exotically different accessory minerals. Most of the geode is the typical medium purple Amethyst that the area is known for, but here and there, the interior is accented by mauve to pink druzy knobs and colorless, sharp scalenohedral Calcite crystals – a most unusual phenomenon. The largest Calcite is a sizable 7½ inches long and 3 inches wide. All of the Calcites are in excellent condition. The geode sits in a custom, chrome plated steel base and has a beveled glass top. The rim of the geode has been hand polished to enhance the overall impression generated by this one-of-a-kind piece. The geode measures an impressive 44 x 30 inches and weighs 602 pounds (272 kgs). Estimate: $16000-$18000
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41190 FINE JADE TABLETOP British Columbia, Canada Sliced from a single enormous boulder of Canadian nephrite, this gorgeous tabletop displays striking smoothness of tone and patterning, and a vitreous luster. It has a lovely deep forest green color flecked with the delicate evidence of black chromite/ magnetite, and only ghostly traces of the white veining found in inferior specimens. The name Jade comes from the Spanish term piedra de ijada meaning “loin stone”, so-called for its reputed properties of healing loin and kidney ailments. Highly valued as an ornamental stone since prehistoric times, particularly in China, jade is the official gemstone of British Columbia, where it is found predominantly in the regions of Lillooet and Cassiar. This is a very highquality example, for its size and tonal consistency, fashioned into a rectangle with slightly tapered corners and rounded edges, and measuring 32 x 24 inches. Estimate: $1800-$2200
41191 AMETHYST TABLE W/WOOD BASE & GLASS Rio Grade do Sul, South Region, Brazil This unique combination of disparate elements: rock, wood and glass, are integrated to showcase the natural beauty of the deep purple Amethyst while serving a more utilitarian need: to hold everyday items. The massive natural geode is liberally endowed with large and brilliantly lustrous stubby Amethyst prisms. The edge of the geode has been hand polished for a slightly more refined look. The Amethyst and agate geode measures 32½ long by 22 inches wide by 13½ inches high, without the base. Cradled in wood, with a custom glass top, the overall measurements are 41½ x 28¾ x 18½. Estimate: $6000-$8000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41192 LARGE MARRA MAMBA TIGER’S EYE SPHERE Mt Brockman Station, Western Australia An incredible natural wonder, this enormous sphere was painstakingly carved from one giant boulder of Marra Mamba tiger eye. Because of its fibrous nature, such an operation is painstaking and hazardous, and it takes no less than a master lapidarist to prepare such an object. Bands of color swirl across the surface like the gas clouds of some extraordinary planet, glittering golden tiger eye, blood-red jasper and the rich olive green of mixed riebeckite (blue) and goethite (yellow) bleeding into one another like mingling oil paints. This beautiful sphere measures an enormous 16 inches in diameter and is presented on a rotating wooden base of swirling, curving form, hand-carved from Australian camphor laurel wood. Estimate: $16000-$20000
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41193 MARRA MAMBA TIGER’S EYE SPHERE Mt Brockman Station, Western Australia Finished with a high polish, this otherworldly sphere looks like nature’s abstract painting in three-dimensions. A wonderfully strong band of shimmering golden tiger’s-eye streaks across its surface, bordered by hematite and other ferrous oxides in shades of rich earth-red and a deep metallic black that seems literally to absorb the light. With highlights of white and red jasper, yellow and brown goethite and the deep olive and bottle green mixture of blue riebeckite and yellow goethite, it is one of the most extraordinary and arresting minerals to be found anywhere on the planet. This amazing sphere measures 10 inches in diameter and rotates slowly on a water-driven display base. Estimate: $9000-$11000
41194 LARGE CRAZY LACE AGATE SPHERE Estacion Ojo Laguna, Chihuahua, Mexico In the world of advanced agate collecting, deposits of interesting material are: found, mined and finally exhausted. That is now the case with the wonderfully complex material known as “crazy lace” agate. As implied by the name, crazy lace agate features a type of banding that is unequalled for complexity. Colors run riot with cocoa browns, blue-greys, golden yellows, salmon pinks, brick red and even a few colorless areas of quartz crystals. Spheres of this material are very rarely encountered and ones of this size with no ‘fill’ are unheard of. Not likely to be seen again, this large 4¾ inch diameter sphere deserves to be exhibited to the public; preferably on a rotating base. In excellent condition with fine polish. Estimate: $1500-$1800
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41195 “TIFFANY STONE” SPHERE Brush-Wellman Beryillium Mine, Topaz-Spor Mountains, Utah, USA Besides the rather dubious honor of being the world’s largest Beryllium mine; the Brush-Wellman Mine near Delta, Utah is host to a very interesting lapidary material referred to as “Tiffany Stone”. A silicated breccia composed of quartz and massive fluorite; Tiffany Stone displays deep purple areas mixed with salmonpink along with black manganese veins, white quartz and an occasional cavity lined with druzy quartz. Quite a mix to pack into a sphere of approximately 5 inches in diameter. With a very fine polish, this unusual and colorful sphere is in fine condition. Estimate: $2500-$3500
41196 LARGE ORBICULAR GRANITE SPHERE Mount Magnet, Australia A continuum of predominantly gray granite surrounds strange centric patterns of black and white orbicules, formed in cooling magma around a seed crystal and resulting in the beautiful patterning or orbicular granite. What better form in which to present it than a sphere? This large example has been fashioned from one giant boulder and is enlivened by a natural feldspar intrusion streaking around its circumference which creates a remarkable contrasting aesthetic element with areas of a pale tan blush associated with the included plagioclase feldspar. Presented on a stabilizing ring it would make an immediately striking display piece on its own or as part of a mineral collection, and measures 12 inches in diameter. Estimate: $3200-$4000
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41197 ORBICULAR GRANITE SLAB Mount Magnet, Australia One of the most striking forms of granite, this material is found in very few places in the world and the location near Mount Magnet in Western Australia is the most renowned (another mine opened recently in Finland). The incredible patterning is the result of concentricallylayered spheroidal masses formed through nucleation around a grain crystal in a cooling magma chamber. This beautiful slab was cut from a single boulder and highly polished on the surface and around the edge, although it retains a natural, irregular contour. The orbicules of black, white and gray contrast beautifully with the predominantly gray granite ground, which is further highlighted by the tan blush that denotes the presence of a plagioclase feldspar. This beautiful slab would make a striking coffee table or bar top and measures 54 x 32½ x 1 inches. Estimate: $3000-$4000
41198 LARGE ORBICULAR GRANITE SLAB Mount Magnet, Australia The wonderful centric patterning in this unusual granite is caused by orbicular structures of radiating and granular concentric shells, largely of hornblende and plagioclase, around cores of varying kinds, in a granular matrix. Sliced from a single huge boulder, this slab has been highly polished but left with a pleasingly natural contoured edge. The predominantly black, white and gray orbicules are offset by some areas of a delicate tan blush caused by the presence of the plagioclase feldspar, and a striking natural band streaking diagonally through the orbicules right across the plate – in reality not the fissure that it appears, but a natural form of the granite’s growth structure that creates a remarkable contrasting aesthetic element. Ideal for a table or bar top or simply as a wall-mounted display piece, it measures 67 x 39 x 1 inches Estimate: $4500-$6000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41199 MASS MORTALITY FOSSIL TABLETOP Devonian Sahara Desert, nr Talmud, Morocco This striking slab has been fashioned from two of the different types of fine fossil marble found in the abundant deposits of the Sahara Desert, dating from 359 to 416 million years ago. At its centre, framed by a narrow brass inset, the ghostly remains of the cone-shaped orthoceras loom strikingly in shades of grey and white from the dark ground. In fine aesthetic contrast, this is bordered by sections of pale tan rock in which the remains of further orthoceras cones can be seen, as well as various ammonites. Many of the ammonites display the attractive deep red-brown coloration that is characteristic of fossils from this area. This superb tabletop measures 39¾ x 24 x ⅝ inches. Estimate: $1200-$1800
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41200 TOWERING PAIR OF ROCK CRYSTAL OBELISKS Brazil An outstanding matched pair of rock crystal obelisks, over two feet in height. It takes a very tall quartz crystal to provide enough material for objects of this size – and in this case, the lapidary artist had to come up with two matching crystals in order to create this pair. The rock crystal is colorless and transparent with an excellent polish. There are the characteristic inclusions typical of natural quartz from this region. No damage and in pristine condition, each obelisk is 25 inches high and measures 5⅜ inches on edge at the base. Estimate: $12000-$18000
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41201 EXCEPTIONAL ROCK CRYSTAL BOWL Brazil This exceptional rock crystal bowl is very similar to the previous lot in source material – with the same colorless transparency and the same type of inclusions. Circular when viewed from above, this very sizable (over 16 inches in diameter) hand-polished bowl features a medium depth and a flat, polished rim – and has a mirror bright polish. It takes an exceptionally large quartz crystal to provide the rough material for an object of this size, and the original crystal had to be enormous. In pristine condition with no damage, the overall dimensions are 16⅝ inches in diameter and 5 inches deep. Estimate: $10000-$14000
41202 ELEGANT FLUORITE BOWL China This beautiful bowl was carved by a Chinese master craftsman from one single piece of rainbow fluorite, and boasts all the desirable elements associated with this sought-after mineral. Almost the entire piece displays characteristic delicate translucence, and the rough boulder with which the master craftsmen started has been artfully carved in such a way as to highlight the natural banding of clear material with lustrous bottle green and deep purple plum coloring. In some areas, the “crazy paving” effect of the crystal growth creates natural individual windows of clarity between the more clouded or darker areas, and a lamellar plane running horizontally around the vertical centre represents another element of the mineral’s natural inner structure. The bowl curves delicately inwards at the rim and sits on an integral turned foot; it measures 6½ inches in diameter and 4¼ inches high and is presented in a Chinese fabric covered box. Estimate: $700-$900
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41203 ELEGANT FLUORITE VASE China Masterfully carved from a single piece of fluorite, clean and elegant in form, this modern sculpture is bursting with colorful life beneath its highly-polished surface: the deep forest green and inky purple of this mineral swirl and run together like the gaseous clouds of a distant nebula. Several parts of this vase provide a clear window into the otherwise eerily translucent and captivating colored planes of crystal growth, and the stripes and bands of color run riot across its entire surface. With a tapered neck and flared rim, it measures 11⅝ inches high and is presented in a Chinese fabric-covered box. Estimate: $600-$800
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41204 VERY LARGE CALCITE “LEAF” BOWL Handcrafted in Mexico A very large trefoil leaf pattern bowl, with incised “veins”, rendered in travertine Onyx. The coloration ranges from colorless to light key-lime green to a deep ocher brown on the rim and stem of the bowl. The polish is a satin type, that is not quite shiny, for a softer effect. It is an impressive 35½ inches in length by 18½ inches wide by 8½ inches deep, and features a natural stone rim from the “rind” of the originating boulder. Estimate: $3000-$4500
41205 PAIR OF “PINEAPPLE” ONYX LAMPS Handcrafted in Mexico A matching pair of “pineapple” lamps with a striking banded pattern and strong golden orange color, reminiscent of ripe pineapples. The travertine onyx that forms the walls of these graceful, glowing accent pieces ranges in color from deep golden honey-orange to light yellow with stripes of pure white accented by pale grey. Fully wired for immediate use; the only thing necessary to allow them to dress up a room is a pair of standard 25 watt light bulbs. In excellent condition, this fine matched pair measures 15¾ x 8½ x 19½ inches high (50 x 40 cm). Estimate: $3500-$5000
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41206 QUARTZ “DOUGHNUT” SCULPTURE Handcrafted in Brazil Depending on your childhood, this impressive abstract sculpture most likely represents: A. a LifeSaver, B. a doughnut or C. the field produced by a Tokamak fusion generator. Whatever you see, there is one thing that is certain about this piece: It required a very large piece of raw rock crystal to make something of this size. Water clear and polished to a brilliant finish, this toroidal treasure measures an impressive 19½ inches from edge to edge. The center hole is 7⅞ inches in diameter. In cross-section the ‘doughnut’ tapers from around ¼ inch thick at the inner and outer edges, to around an inch thick in between. When placed upon its custom steel and Larvikite base, it stands 29 inches in height. This unique sculpture is in pristine condition and was the first of its type to be carved by this master Brazilian lapidary artist. Estimate: $9000-$12000
41207 PENGUIN COUPLE ON ALBITE Artist: Peter Muller Stone source: Brazil A Quartz and Albite ‘ice floe’ is the frigid playground for this penguin couple. Fashioned from deep black Obsidian and pure white Quartz, this cool duo is comprised of one penguin getting ready to belly-slide and the other watching the whole affair with a skeptical eye. The Quartz/Albite that their little vermeil feet are attached to, is shot through with purple mica and bi-color Tourmaline prisms giving the ‘ice floe’ a slightly outre look. Both birds are 5 inches in length and the complete sculpture is 7 inches high by 10½ inches wide by 9 inches deep. Excellent condition. Estimate: $3200-$4800
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41208 ROSE QUARTZ COCKATOO ON BLACK TOURMALINE Artist: Peter Muller Stone source: Brazil Coyly looking over his shoulder with bright Garnet eyes, this Pink Parrot is fashioned almost entirely from fine Brazilian Rose Quartz and has a glistening Garnet beak. With the feathers on the back of his neck slightly ruffled, his gold-plated sterling silver feet firmly grip the black Tourmaline crystal that is his perch. The Tourmaline, in turn, is inset into an acrylic custom stand. The bird alone measures 8¾ inches in length and the entire sculpture measures 11¼ x 5½ x 4¾ inches. In excellent condition. Estimate: $3000-$4000
41209 ANIMATED SODALITE MACAW ON ALBITE WITH MICA Artist: Peter Muller Stone source: World-wide A life-like, and almost life-size, representation of a Macaw preening his ‘underwing’ feathers: a pose any parrot owner is quite familiar with. The body of this busy feathered friend is composed of deep blue Sodalite, and he has golden-yellow Calcite breast, inner wings and tail feathers. The head is green Aventurine accented by black Dolomite and white Quartz cheeks and a black Onyx beak. His vermeil feet are perched upon a mixed Clevelandite and Muscovite Mica aggregate that looks remarkably like a distorted snowman. The overall dimensions of the Macaw are 14½ inches from head to tail, giving the complete sculpture a height of 16 inches, a width of 9 inches and a depth of 6½ inches. In excellent condition, with detailing down to the pin feathers, the entire sculpture is mounted on a handpolished acrylic base and bears lapidary artist Peter Muller’s collection #1-8642. Estimate: $3500-$5000
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41210 TRIO OF LAPIS MACAWS ON CRYSTAL BASE Artist: Peter Muller Stone source: Afghanistan & Brazil This striking deep blue trio of Macaws are carved from the finest Afghani Lapis-Lazuli. They are perched upon a base consisting of a water clear Quartz crystal group, which is in turn, mounted upon a simple rock crystal plinth. Their Garnet eyes glisten with curiosity and their bright, gemmy Carnelian beaks contrast strongly with their deep blue Lapis bodies. They appear to be just gathering together for a chat. All are equipped with vermeil feet and the carving is extremely detailed. The longest bird measures 6 inches from tip to tail and the complete ensemble is 10½ inches high by 7½ inches by 6 inches. In excellent condition. Estimate: $3000-$4500
41211 KESTREL FALCON ON QUARTZ & TOURMALINE BASE Artist: Peter Muller Stone source: World-wide Having just spotted a potential meal, this sharp-eyed Kestrel Falcon (also known as a Sparrowhawk) is poised for take-off. His body is composed of mahogany Obsidian, Labradorite, opalized Agate and snowflake Obsidian, his breast is yellow Quartz, his beak is black Onyx and yellow Agate, and he has Garnet eyes. He is perched upon a single, water-clear piece of rock crystal, ready to spring into flight from his vermeil feet. The rock crystal base is shot through with fine black Tourmaline needles. The rock crystal is itself held firmly in place by a custom acrylic base. The falcon is an almost life-size 7½ inches from tip to tail and the complete assemblage measures 14 x 7½ x 4⅝ inches. In excellent condition. Estimate: $3500-$5000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41212 CAMEO IN TOURMALINE Dunton Gem Quarry, Newry, Oxford Co., Maine, USA Carved in Idar-Oberstein, Germany This fine example of top quality German gem carving is fashioned from a single, transverse slice of a gem Tourmaline from the famous find in Newry, Maine, many years ago. It displays a deep pink center with a light pink surrounding area and an exterior of pastel green carved into a raised rim. The center of the piece features a cameo of a dancer, possibly Rudolf Nureyev, in an evocative pose. The highrelief cameo stands out even more by virtue of a matte treatment to the background, while the ‘dancer’ possesses a higher degree of polish. The back of the Tourmaline slice is brightly polished. In exquisite condition, this lapidary masterpiece rests upon a custom labeled acrylic base. It measures 2⅜ inches across and ¼ inch thick. Provenance: Steve & Clara Smale Collection Estimate: $6000-$7000
41213 LARGE DECORATIVE MALACHITE BOX Handcrafted in Italy Stone source: Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire) A classic rectangular box rendered in highly patterned Malachite from Zaire. The top and side surfaces are composed of Malachite stalactite sections chosen for their ‘flower’ type of banding. A huge ‘flower’ decorates the top of the box and the pattern is repeated on each of the four sides – an expressive display of light and dark banding that appears to be almost chatoyant in nature. The inlay work is so precise that it appears to be seamless. Top grade Malachite, such as seen in this box, is becoming very difficult to obtain. The interior is of black onyx and the metal furniture is gold-plated brass. The box rests upon colorless, rock crystal feet. In excellent condition with a fine polish. Fit and finish are characteristic of Italian workmanship: very well made. Overall dimensions are an impressive 11¾ x 8 x 4½ inches (30 x 20 cm) and it is in very fine condition. Estimate: $8000-$12000
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41214 PURPORO A POIS BOX WITH LAPIS Handcrafted in Italy Stone source: Ancient Italy & Afghanistan A square box constructed from alternating dark and light colored Lapis Lazuli tesserae inset into the lid of a simple box composed of Red Porfirio marble; an antique marble mined by the Romans and Egyptians. This marble is now only available when ancient buildings are renovated, since the quarries that produced it were worked out ages ago. The lid is gently rounded where the top surface meets the sides. The interior is lined in black Italian onyx and is mounted with gold-plated brass furniture. In excellent condition, it measures 5⅛ inches square and is 2½ inches high (13 x 13 cm). Estimate: $600-$1000
41215 PURPORO A POIS HUMIDOR WITH ANCIENT MARBLE & COLORFUL STONES Handcrafted in Italy Stone source: Ancient Italy & Worldwide Localities A rainbow selection of semi-precious stones are inset as round inlays, approximately ⅝ of an inch in diameter, into square tiles of Verde Alpe; a type of green ‘marble’ no longer available except from ancient Italian buildings. The square tesserae are in turn arrayed into a grid pattern of inlays set into the sides and lid of the box itself. The body of the box is formed from another antique marble referred to as Red Porfirio: again a type only available through demolition and recycling of ancient Roman buildings. A chart accompanies the box detailing the location and type of the more than 25 different stones making up the inlays – some of the gemstones include Malachite, Lapis, Tiger-Eye, Amazonite, Rhodochrosite, Jasper, Sodalite to name a few. The interior is wood lined with gold plated hinges and a lip seal type of edge to maintain the humidity of the contents. It measures 12¼ x 8⅜ x 4¾ inches and rests upon feet of red porfirio marble. Excellent condition, this artisan crafted box is so skillfully constructed that it appears to be seamless. Estimate: $4500-$6500
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41216 ‘CANDLE FLAME’ TIGER’S-EYE BOX Handcrafted in Italy Stone source: South Africa Because of asymmetries in the raw material used to make up the top of this golden treasure box, there is a ‘candle flame’ of gold Tiger’s-Eye outlined in shining metallic black hematite, centered in the middle of the box lid. This patterning attests to the skill and perception of the master lapidary who created this box. The Tiger’sEye grades in color from mainly yellow/gold to a few select areas with a subtle green/blue tint to them. Gold plated furniture and a black onyx interior. In excellent condition, this unique ‘candle flame’ box measures 5⅞ x 3⅞ x 1⅝ inches (10 x 15 cm). Estimate: $1500-$2000
41217 ROSE QUARTZ BOX Handcrafted in Italy Stone source: Brazil Fashioned entirely from Brazilian Rose Quartz , this pastel pink creation is quite large for this material. There are colorless areas in the Quartz providing contrast to the overall effect. The box is extremely well polished – mirror bright. The lid displays a “bull nosed” type of edge treatment around the perimeter and is hinged with gold plated furniture. Measuring 7⅛ x 4⅛ x 2⅜ inches high, this fine example of Italian craftsmanship is in excellent condition. Estimate: $3000-$4500
41218 PATTERNED RED JASPER BOX Handcrafted in Italy Stone source: Africa A lapidary box styled from banded red Jasper displaying pale rose bands against a deep red background. The Jasper has been ‘butterflied’ to produce a matching right/left ‘mirror image’ pattern on the lid and the unique patterning is continued skillfully down the front of box – creating an abstract art pattern in stone. The interior is lined in black onyx and is finished with gold-plated brass furniture and felt ‘feet’. In excellent condition, this fine box measures 7 x 4¼ x 1⅝ inches high (18 x 10 cm). Estimate: $1200-$1600
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41219 AMMONITE INLAY BOX WITH TIGER-EYE Handcrafted in Italy Stone source: Madagascar & South Africa A simple, rectangular black onyx box inlaid with a Madagascan Ammonite split into a matching right and left “mirror” pair. The fossil ammonite dates back to the Jurassic age of dinosaurs, when ammonites were everywhere in the oceans. Near the edges of the lid is a thin strip inlay of South African golden tiger’s-eye providing a complimentary ornament to the ammonite. The inlay work is seamless between the three elements of the box. With gold plated hinges and felt anti-scratch feet, it is in excellent condition and measures 7¾ x 5⅞ x 2 inches high (20 x 15 cm). Estimate: $2500-$3500
41220 UNIQUE HANDMADE FOSSIL STINGRAY BOX Heliobatus radians, Diplomystus dentatus Eocene Warfield Quarries, Green River Formation, Lincoln Co., Wyoming, USA This exquisite box combines the beauty of nature, ancient and modern, with the art of the skilled woodworker to create a unique, captivating and functional object. At the centre of the lid are the fossilized remains of a rare prehistoric stingray. The impossibly delicate structure of the ray’s cartilaginous skeleton is most fascinatingly exhibited in the hundreds of tiny “bones” that make up the wing-like pectoral fins. Set into clear strong Lucite, it is bordered by pieces of crosscut Indiana walnut, the irregular bark outline retained to give an aesthetically pleasing reminder of the original tree’s natural form; what is more, three of the small irregularities in the walnut have been filled with natural Arizona turquoise, and back edge of the lid is comprised of a strip of striking purple heart from Africa. The purple heart motif is repeated in a band on the base of the box, above which, on the face, is mounted another fine Green River fossil, this time a small example of the predatory Diplomystus dentatus, showing similarly fine detail and particularly delicate coloring. This is flanked by two further sections of cross-cut Indiana walnut, whilst the remainder of the box is fashioned from quarter and plain sawn sections of the same wood. The whole piece measures 16½ x 7⅞ x 4¼ inches and is inscribed on the underside by the maker Stephen Rapp with details of the materials used, item number and date. Estimate: $850-$1100
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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METEORITES Meteorites – not to be confused with meteors, the luminescent phenomena in the night sky – are fragments of natural material from outer space that impact Earth. Named after the closest city, geological feature, or post office to which they are “delivered,” meteorites originate from asteroids, comets, the Moon and Mars – and lunar and Martian specimens are featured in this offering, (See lots 41238 – 41240). Meteorites are of great interest to scientists as they contain a great deal of information about the formation of our solar system. Moreover, it has been hypothesized that not only did a meteorite lead to the demise of the dinosaurs (allowing the opportunity for human life to evolve), but also that meteorites transported to Earth the precursors to life itself, more than four billion years ago. Organic molecules, including amino acids, have been found in some meteorites, resulting in the increasingly popular Panspermia Theory of Creation: life having been “seeded” on Earth by extraterrestrial impact. Sperm and egg on a cosmic scale. The combined mass of all known meteorites is less than the world’s annual output of gold, and private collectors have been making the little excess material that does exist into one of the most in-demand collectibles today. The value of meteorites has skyrocketed in recent years and the sites that supplied many of the finest meteorites have been exhaustively searched. There are three broad categories of meteorites: stones (representing approximately 94% of all meteorites), irons (5%); and stony irons (1%). All three groups of meteorites are represented in this offering. Stone meteorites quickly terrestrialize or become “weathered” after impact. To the uninitiated, stones typically appear to be of an Earthly origin, and recovery is problematic unless the impact is witnessed or the meteorite lands in an environment where it is easily detected (see lots 41236 and 41247 – 41252). Iron meteorites are comprised primarily of iron and nickel, are more resistant to Earth’s elemental forces and are more easily recognized (see lots 41221 – 41227). On average, they are composed of 90% iron, 8% nickel, and 2% trace elements. The amount of nickel determines the type of crystalline pattern that will form, referred to as either a Widmanstätten or acid-etch pattern. More than one million years are required for the alloys that chiefly comprise iron meteorites to crystallize. When the planetary body from which these meteorites originated broke apart, the hot metallic core interacted with few molecules in the vacuum of space to which it could transfer its heat, thus providing sufficient time – millions of years – for the molecules of two metallic alloys, kamacite and taenite, to form their octahedral crystalline habit. As there is no other environment beside the vacuum of space that provides such an extended cooling curve, the presence of this latticework or Widmanstätten pattern is diagnostic in the identification of meteorites. Stony-irons, as the name indicates, are a combination of the stone and iron types and the most resplendent of all (see lots 41228 – 41230). For a meteorite to be analyzed by scientists it must be broken or cut; only when multiple specimens of the same meteorite are recovered will “complete” specimens exist. In the unlikely event you have found what you strongly believe to be a meteorite, please contact a major museum, as each new discovery can further assist in unlocking the mysteries of creation.
41221 GIBEON — SPECTACULAR LARGE METEORITE Iron, fine octahedrite Great Nama Land, Namibia Thousands of years ago, a gigantic extraterrestrial mass crashed into the earth’s atmosphere, exploding into thousands of fragments and falling across an elliptical 275-100 km area on the edge of the Kalahari Desert. First discovered in modern times in 1836 by English Captain J.E. Alexander, the meteorite shower was named Gibeon after the nearest town, and its fantastic aesthetic qualities have made it one of the most popular collectors’ meteorites. It had been popular with the locals for many years however: just as with the Cape York meteorite in Greenland, fragments were collected by local tribesmen for use as spear and knife blades, and other tools. This spectacular example is uncommonly large for specimens from this fall, weighing in at 336 pounds (152.4 kilograms) and measuring approximately 20 x 15 x 13 inches. It is also a supremely aesthetic example with gun metal surfaces of fusion crust covered all over and the rounded thumbprint-like depressions known as regmaglypts, caused by burning and melting during the meteorite’s descent through the atmosphere. The peaks and ridges are highlighted by the glimpses of the shimmering nickel-iron of which the meteorite is composed, and the lower areas are dappled with a lovely dusting of rust-red oxidization. One narrow end of the specimen is almost completely flat, indicating that this piece sheared off a larger mass late in the meteorite’s entry. Best of all, however, amidst the rolling wave-like peaks and troughs of its surface, there is a large and natural cantaloupe-sized depression, a rare feature that adds wonderful character to the extraterrestrial form. This fantastical, first-class specimen is displayed on a rough-constructed welded steel custom stand. Estimate: $40000-$55000
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41222 THE LARGEST SIKHOTE-ALIN METEORITE EVER OFFERED FOR SALE Iron, coarse octahedrite Sikhote-Alin Mountains, Northeast of Vladivostok, Siberia, Russian On February 12, 1947 at 10:30 AM, the largest meteorite shower in human history was witnessed by thousands of people, at distances up to 300 km away from the impact site near Luchegorsk, Siberia. The fireball was brighter than the Sun and cast shadows in broad daylight. During the meteoroid’s descent through the atmosphere, it gradually melted and broke apart to form a cluster of smaller meteoroids surrounding the largest meteoroid or “main mass”. The fireball effect was created by the melting and ablating of meteoritic metal, forming a corona of molten material around the cluster. At approximately 5.6 km altitude, thermal instability in the superheated nickel-iron main mass caused a gigantic explosion, equivalent to that of a nuclear weapon, which blew it apart into thousands of chunks of red-hot shrapnel, some of which weighed hundreds of kilograms. People who lived within 80 km of the impact site saw the sky burst into flames followed by thousands of smokey tendrils tipped with fire as the shrapnel hurtled away from the blast and fell to the ground. During the explosion and impact event, the clustered meteoroids would have impacted the ground as complete individuals while the main mass was torn apart into thousands of sharp metal shrapnel and impacted the ground as twisted and torn explosion fragments. Luckily, the impact area was devoid of human life or there would’ve been an incredible human tragedy. Most of the Sikhote-Alin meteoroid was blown into shrapnel, but a small percentage of the total impacted the Earth as complete individuals bearing the trademark regmaglypts, or ‘thumbprints”, that characterize and help to identify meteorites. Regmaglypts form as the surface metal melts away due to the heat generated by atmospheric friction: As the droplets of metal separate from the surface, a small pit area of lower pressure is created that channels and concentrates hot gases into vortices which act like mini blow-torches aimed along the edges of the pit. Then, a positive feedback loop is created whereby, the deeper the pit, the quicker the melting along the inside walls of the pit, causing the regmaglypts to become more and more pronounced with further heating and melting. These regmaglypted individuals are the rarest and most sought after of all iron meteorites, and Sikhote-Alin has produced absolutely the finest, most aesthetic, regmaglypted meteorites in the world. Sikhote-Alin has the added distinction of producing the best fusion-crusted iron meteorites in the world. Fusion crust forms over the entire surface of a meteorite as some of the melted material cools as it flows away from the melt area like a chocolate shell forms on a dipped ice cream cone. Fusion crust is very rare on iron meteorites because they tend to oxidize easily and rust, destroying the fusion crust. The present specimen is a superb, beautifully regmaglypted, complete individual measuring 48 x 30 x 28 cm (18.75 x 11.75 x 11 inches) and weighing 134 kg (295 pounds), completely covered with beautiful gunmetalblue fusion crust. This is the largest regmaglypted complete individual outside of Russia. No museum anywhere in the world other than Russia has anything larger. A spectacular meteorite of unmatched quality and aesthetics worthy of the most discriminating collector. Estimate: $80000-$90000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41223 SIKHOTE-ALIN — MATCHLESS IRON METEORITE FROM THE LARGEST METEORITE SHOWER SINCE THE DAWN OF CIVILIZATION Iron, coarse octahedrite Maritime Territory, Siberia, Russia This is a meteorite that will never cease to amaze and enthrall. It originates from what had to be among the most frightening natural phenomena ever experienced: the largest meteorite shower since the dawn of civilization. Accompanied by terrifying sonic detonations, it was at 10.30 AM on February 12, 1947 that the sky seemed ablaze above the Sikhote-Alin Mountains of Siberia. The monumental forces exerted on this meteorite as it rocketed through Earth’s atmosphere are amply evident; blanketed with fusion crust and regmaglypts (the aerodynamic thumbprints which result from its fiery plunge through Earth’s atmosphere), this crescent-shaped meteorite was shorn from a larger mass before its solo descent to Earth. This meteorite was traveling at a cosmic velocity of 10-20 miles/second before atmospheric frictional heating acted as the hottest of torches sculpting this meteorite into the compelling object presently offered. At the bottom of the meteorite as well as on the reverse, thumbprints are seen whose process of formation was interrupted when the meteorite hit terminal velocity; the atmospheric smoothing of its previously jagged, ripped surface is incomplete-but just barely. A close examination of the surface details mesmerize. This is a superlative example of a cataclysmic event frozen in time, from the most terrifying meteorite shower of modern times. A prized specimen on a custom armature from The Macovich Collection of Meteorites. 137 x 77 x 48 mm (5.25 x 3 x 2 inches) and 1094 grams (2.5 pounds) Estimate: $4000-$5500
41224 SIKHOTE-ALIN METEORITE — UNUSUAL, HIGHLY TEXTURED COMPLETE METEORITE FROM THE LARGEST METEORITE SHOWER OF THE LAST SEVERAL THOUSAND YEARS Iron, coarse octahedrite Maritime Territory, Siberia, Russia Similar to the previous lot, this splendid meteorite originates from the largest meteorite shower in human history. Accenting the face of this meteorite are vibrant peaks, folds, and dozens of regmaglypts (the tiny thumbprints found along the meteorite’s surface created during the fiery plunge through Earth’s atmosphere). All of the foregoing are under a veil of sought-after fusion crust with a natural chocolate to charcoal patina, The reverse of this curious example is as flat as the obverse is lively-and it is as engaging an example as it is modest in size. A choice meteorite from one of the most famous meteorite showers in history. 77 x 71 x 24 mm (3 x 2.75 x 1 inches) and 273 grams. Provenance: Macovich Collection. Estimate: $700-$1100
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41225 SIKHOTE-ALIN METEORITE — COLLECTION OF SEVEN SMALL METEORITES Iron, coarse octahedrite Maritime Territory, Siberia, Russia Similar to the previous two lots, this is a grouping of seven individual meteorites from the Sikhote Alin event, the largest meteorite shower of the last several thousand years. The shock wave from the impact of the main mass was felt a hundred miles away and a swirling funnelshaped smoke train left in the meteorite’s wake was seen from even further away. Miraculously, no one was injured among the thousands of terrified local inhabitants when the snowy, terrain was showered with more than 60 tons of material, impaling trees and creating dozens of craters. This is an engaging collection of differently shaped complete meteorites. As all of the specimens offered here exhibit regmaglypts, we know each one of these specimens experienced a solo descent through much of Earth’s atmosphere and are likely the small pieces which exploded off a larger mass which broke apart after having slammed into Earth’s upper atmosphere (to be differentiated from the less desirable jagged shrapnel material-not offered here-which broke apart in the lower atmosphere). This fascinating mini-collection features one meteorite with a rare naturally formed hole. Average specimen size: 27 x 21 x 15 mm (1 x .75 x .5 inches). Total weight: 82.7g Estimate: $450-$700
41226 GIBEON — CLASSIC IRON METEORITE Iron, fine octahedrite Great Nama Land, Namibia All iron meteorites, the present example included, originated from the planet that briefly existed between Mars and Jupiter, fragments of which are now part of the Asteroid Belt. Gibeon iron meteorites are the bounty of a huge meteorite shower that occurred thousands of years ago. Due to relatively high nickel content (8%), Gibeon is ductile and not as prone to oxidizing as other iron meteorites. This is a beautiful example, of elegant, elongated form, with a rippling fusion crust dusted with rust-red oxidization; the surface seems to ripple like the wind-tossed waves of an extraterrestrial sea, forming peaks and serrated ridges, deep basins and the shallow depressions of the characteristic regmaglypts caused by the removal of surface layers as the hurtling stone burned its way through the atmosphere. An excellent specimen from one of the most famous meteorite falls, it weighs in at 56 pounds (25.4 kilograms) and measures approximately 13 x 9 x 6 inches, presented upright on a rough-constructed welded steel custom display stand. Estimate: $7500-$8500
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41227 SEYMCHAN METEORITE — FROM THE MACOVICH COLLECTION, ABSTRACT MODERN ART FROM OUTER SPACE Pallasite – PAL Magadan District, Siberia This is a choice sculptural example of a fascinating meteorite. It was in the 1960’s that two large metallic masses were found in a Siberian streambed not from one of Stalin’s gulags. Identified as meteorites, they were named Seymchan after the nearby town and classified as part of the rare IIE subgroup. Subsequently, they were later reclassified as part of an ungrouped category more rare still. A recent expedition to the area resulted in the discovery of hundreds of additional kilograms of Seymchan contained in numerous specimens, from which this uniquely shaped offering originates. Most Seymchan iron meteorites are shapeless, non-aesthetic lumps of nickel-iron, less attractive as a whole, but tailor made for subdivision into slices, cubes and whatnot to exhibit the meteorite’s internal crystalline structure. That’s hardly the case here. With a broad convex surface area and a gleaming patina, a custom molded pedestal accompanying this lot grips this natural sculpture whose shape appears to be the result of having been immersed in a stream of running water...for hundreds of years. On the reverse, a window was cut parallel to the curved surface of the mass to provide a reveal of the octahedral crystalline structure of this meteorite, a pattern that serves to differentiate iron meteorites from one another – and this is clearly a Seymchan. The lattice-like pattern is accented by a bolt of silicates arcing through the crystalline matrix. With a Macovich Collection provenance, this is a unique, highly aesthetic sculptural example of an iron meteorite. 269 x 281 x 129 mm (10.5 x 11 x 5 inches) and 11.7 kilograms (26 pounds). Estimate: $11000-$14500
41228 A PARTIAL SLICE OF A STUNNING NEW PALLASITE Meteorite Type: Pallasite (PAL) Seymchan, Magadan District, Russia Discovered 2005 Pallasites are believed to come from the core-mantle boundary of a small planet or asteroid that was destroyed during, or shortly after, the formation of our solar system. This means that pallasites date from the very beginning of our solar system, and radioactive fission-track dating confirms ages of 4.1-4.4 billion years for a large sampling of known pallasites. Pallasites are made up of a combination of silvery nickel-iron core metal and dense silicates – usually olivine in its gorgeous crystalline gem form, called peridot. Peridot is a highly soughtafter gemstone that was prized by the ancient Egyptians who used it extensively in their royal jewelry. Peridot can range in color from emerald green to orange to dark smoky jet, and all of these colors are present in this incredible meteorite slice. The emerald green and orange crystals in this slice are quite gemmy and exhibit a gorgeous schiller effect when the slice is rotated in the light. The nickel-iron alloy of meteorites is comprised of an interlocking network of octahedral crystals which can be exposed in two dimensions by slicing the meteorite and etching it with acid. The resultant intersecting patterns of geometric shapes and lines is truly gorgeous and are called Widmanstatten figures. Widmanstatten figures occur only in meteorites and are the primary tool in correctly identifying iron meteorites. This slice has large areas of these stunning patterns which, when contrasted with the lovely green, orange and dark olivine crystals, paint a breathtaking picture of the structure and mechanics of a planet’s interior. Pallasites literally provide a glimpse under the hood of our planet’s engine! This spectacular slice measures 5⅜ x 5 x⅜ inches thick and weighs 775 grams. Estimate: $3500-$4500
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41229 IMILAC METEORITE — COMPLETE SLICE OF A METEORITE WITH SPACE GEMS PAL – Pallasite Atacama Desert, Chile As a result of their beauty, pallasites are the most sought-after meteorites, and this select complete slice amply reveals why Imilac is among the most coveted. All pallasitic meteorites – which represent just 1% of all meteorites – originate from the mantlecore boundary of a planetary body that broke apart during the formation of our solar system (whose remnants today orbit the sun between Mars and Jupiter and are collectively referred to as the asteroid belt). There is nothing naturally occurring on Earth that resembles this material. The olivine crystals seen here are the result of small chunks of stony mantle becoming suspended in molten nickel-iron which slowly cooled and crystallized over a million years in the vacuum of outer space. Imilac occasionally contains-as does this dazzling complete slice-gem-quality olivine or peridot, the birthstone of August. This specimen possesses the archetypal dispersion of olivine crystals, a complete rim of fusion crust and a little hook where a crystal at the meteorite’s perimeter broke off during impact. Found in the Atacama Desert in Chile – the highest desert on Earth – the source material is now thoroughly exhausted. It is now very difficult to obtain complete slices of what is inarguably some the most resplendent extraterrestrial material known to exist. This is an outstanding example of a renowned meteorite. 122 x 97 x 3 mm (5 x 3.75 x 0.1 inches) and 142.7 grams. Provenance: Macovich Collection of Meteorites. Estimate: $3000-$4250
41230 IMILAC METEORITE — PARTIAL SLICE OF A PALLASITE, THE MOST BEDAZZLING EXTRATERRESTRIAL MATERIAL KNOWN PAL (Pallasite) Atacama Desert, Chile Similar to the previous lot, what distinguishes this partial slice is that it originates from the largest Imilac meteorite every recovered – a specimen which was the centerpiece of the Meteorite Hall at the British Museum of Natural History (now The Natural History Museum) before it was subdivided. Acquired by the Macovich Collection, this specimen also contains peridot. With one curved edge of fusion crust and two cut edges, this is a select representation with a similarly select provenance. 69 x 59 x 2 mm (2.75 x 2.33 x 0.1 inches) and 31.3 grams. Estimate: $800-$1200
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41231 END PIECE OF NEW SILICATED IRON METEORITE — THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF AN EXOTIC METEORITE REVEALED Silicated Iron, IAB Algeria The meteorite from which this large end piece originated was recently found by nomadic Berbers in southern Algeria. It does not as yet have a name – a situation to be soon remedied by the Meteoritical Society’s Nomenclature Committee. On December 3rd, 2008 UCLA scientists announced that only one other meteorite exists whose composition is identical the meteorite now offered – and there are only seven pounds of that Australian meteorite. Featuring the signature appearance of the most resplendent silicated iron meteorites, this end piece showcases large, dark silicate inclusions suspended throughout a crystalline metallic matrix; an intergrowth of alloys whose appearance is diagnostic in the identification of a silicated iron meteorite. This is the largest end piece from the second largest mass associated with this meteorite shower – a very spare event by iron meteorite standards. The total known weight of the entire shower with which this meteorite is associated is less than 200 kilograms – most iron meteorite showers include one meteorite that weighs more. The external surface of the specimen now offered has a dull platinum patina – a most atypical finish that is the result of natural sandblasting in the Algerian desert over a period of at least hundreds of years. The external surface also features swatches of glazed fusion crust, the result of burning through the atmosphere during its descent to Earth. Mounted on a custom armature, and with a Macovich Collection provenance – the finest collection of aesthetic iron meteorites in the world – this is a rarely available large end piece of an exotic meteorite. 4,285 grams (9.5 pounds) and 199 x 133 x 74 mm (7.75 x 5 x 3 inches). Estimate: $14000-$18000
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41232 END PIECE OF NEW SILICATED IRON METEORITE — INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF AN EXOTIC METEORITE REVEALED Silicated Iron, IAB Algeria Similar to the previous lot, this is the other end piece from the very same silicated iron meteorite referenced in the previous lot – a member of one of the more rare meteorite subgroups on record. Unlike the previous specimen, the gleaming metallic matrix seen here is the result of the cut surface receiving a high polish. Very few iron meteorites have been found in the Sahara, and the unique character of an iron meteorite’s exterior surface exposed to the desert elements is also featured in this select representation – a rarely available end piece of a silicated iron meteorite. 71 x 60 x 52 mm (2.75 x 2.25 x 2 inches) 510 grams (1.1 pounds). Estimate: $2000-$3000
41233 COMPLETE SLICE OF A NEW SLICATED IRON METEORITE — THE INTERIOR OF AN EXOTIC METEORITE REVEALED Silicated Iron, IAB Algeria Similar to the previous two lots, this is complete slice from the very same meteorite from which the two aforementioned end pieces originate. This superb complete example features a complete external rim and a mesmerizing abstract display of the nickel-iron alloys and silicates that comprise this bit of extraterrestrial real estate. This is an unusually captivating example of the crystalline fingerprint that is diagnostic in the identification of a meteorite. 189 x 103 x 3 mm (7.5 x 4.25 x 0.1 inches) and 197 grams. Estimate: $800-$1100
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41234 VERMILLION METEORITE — FOR METEORITE COGNOSCENTI, COMPLETE SLICE OF AN EXTRAORDINARILY RARE METEORITE Pyroxene-rich Pallasite Black Vermillion River, Kansas In 1991 the Vermillion meteorite was found in Marshall Country, Kansas in a wheat field near the Black Vermillion River. While the entire mass is just under 34 kilograms, it is the largest member of a rather small group of meteorites referred to as pyroxene-rich pallasites. There are only two – the other was found in Antarctica and weighs less than 55 grams, or about 3.5 ounces. For the sophisticated collector, this is a complete slice of an extremely difficult to obtain meteorite – and it is quite possibly the first time it has ever been made available at auction. As a result of the amount of material lost due to cutting, grinding and polishing, less than 25- kilos of material exist – and a very large fraction of this amount is forever locked away in the world’s foremost museums. The specimen seen here was acquired by the Macovich Collection of meteorites. Pyroxene is a silicate that is found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. “Pyroxene” comes from the Greek words for fire and stranger, an etymology that relates to crystals of pyroxene seen in volcanic glass. In the Vermillion meteorite, crystals of pyroxene are embedded within the metallic matrix as well as within the larger crystals of olivine. A notable offering for meteorite cognoscenti. 171 x 123 x 5 mm (6.75 x 5 x .2 inches) and 595.7 grams (1.3 pounds). Provenance: Macovich Collection. Estimate: $15500-$18000
41235 AN OLIVINE DIOGENITE — THE RAREST METEORITE CLASS NWA 2801 Achondrite—Olivine Diogenite Algeria Discovered 2003 Diogenites are a class of meteorites that originated on the asteroid Vesta. Spectroscopy studies have confirmed this origin for all the known Diogenites, along with the Howardite and Eucrite meteorite classes, which together make up the HEDO class (H=Howardites, E=Eucrites, H=Howardites, D=Diogenites and O=Olivine Diogenites, a brand new meteorite class). Howardites and Eucrites originated from the surface of Vesta while Diogenites originated from deep in the crust and the Olivine Diogenites, even lower. Diogenites are characterized by the extremely large crystal size of the pyroxenes or olivine that they are primarily composed of. They are widely considered to be the most beautiful of the stone meteorites because of the presence of the large emerald-green crystal shards with a reflective “schiller effect” that make up nearly their entire mass. While all Diogenites come from deep under the surface of Vesta, NWA 2801 and its paired stones, NWA 1877 and NWA 1459, are the only known meteorites to come from so deep in the crust or upper mantle of the asteroid which is proven by their composition of almost pure Olivine. What makes deep samples so rare is that, usually, an impact large enough to penetrate that deeply into the asteroid will destroy the asteroid. But with these samples, we have evidence of an incredible cataclysm on a visible body in our solar system, an event which excavated a crater many miles deep into the surface of Vesta yet somehow left the asteroid intact. When this meteorite was first analyzed by scientists, it created an incredible furor because they had long been seeking the “holy grail” of asteroid-origin meteorites to prove their theories of the structure and composition of the major asteroids in the solar system. The HED classification, having stood unchanged for decades, was suddenly in need of revision, thus, the “O” was added to make it the HEDO class for all meteorites originating from Vesta. This specimen is a half-slice from the main mass of NWA 2801 and measures 92 x 84 x 3 mm (3.6 x 3.3 inches) and weighs 92 grams. It possesses a dark green spinach-jade appearance that is quite pleasing, and it will exhibit the “schiller effect” from its very large crystal grains when rotated slowly in the light. A very desirable and scientifically important specimen. Estimate: $3800-$4500
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41236 A RARE LL3 TYPE METEORITE NWA 1227 Chondrite, LL3 Morocco Discovered 1999 Chondrites are composed of chondrules, which are basically remnant condensed droplets of different minerals, primarily the silicates olivine and pyroxene, which formed after the heat from “Big Bang” dissipated in the first few million years of our solar system’s formation. Initially, after the “Big Bang”, everything was vaporized and turned into gas or plasma which, through gravitational and electronic effects, formed gas clouds, called solar nebula, from which all stars and solar systems were created. As the galaxies and solar systems cooled, the vaporized matter of the universe condensed to form perfect spheres, which was basically the same as forming raindrops from water vapor, but in zero gravity there is no bias direction for condensation, causing perfect symmetry, and thus, spheres instead of droplets were formed. These silicate spheres (called chondrules), along with spheres of condensed elements, metals and other minerals, gradually collected together due to gravity (called accretion) to form larger and larger bodies. Some of these accretion masses became so large that gravitational effects and heat, produced by radioactive decay, caused gradual alteration of the chondrules to the point that their shape and mineralogy were completely altered. This process is called metamorphism and is more pronounced the larger the body becomes. At the extremes, on large asteroids and planets, no original chondritic material is left; it has all been metamorphosed by gravity and heat into re-crystallized rock, forming the large, semihomogeneous, differentiated layers of crust, mantle and core which make up all large heavenly bodies. Metamorphism is quite common and ordinary chondrites are given designations or petrologic numbers of 3 through 6, with 3 being the least metamorphosed and 6 being the most. Those meteorites with a petrologic number of 3 are very rare and the rarest of all are the LL3’s (LL standing for very low iron content). These LL3’s are considered to be the most primitive and unaltered remnants of the “Big Bang” and the proto-solar system, and thus, are highly valued by scientists because they sample a slice of time, approximately 4.55 billion years ago, during the formation of our solar system. Low number chondrites are also considered to be the most beautiful and sought after of all chondrites because of the multi-colored spheres of which they are comprised. This specimen perfectly shows the gorgeous character of the primitive chondrites with its clearly defined chondrules, some of which are very large, and its variety of colors. It is a full slice from the main mass, which is held in the collections of the University of Tokyo. A total known weight of only 1,050 grams makes this specimen even more desirable due to its limited availability. A very aesthetic sample of some of the oldest matter in the Universe! Measures 92 x 52 x 2 mm thick (3.6 x 2 inches) and weighing 24.8 grams. Estimate: $800-$1100
41237 A GORGEOUS FULL SLICE OF A METEORITE FROM THE ASTEROID VESTA NWA 2650 AEUC (Achondrite, Eucrite), Cumulative Eucrite Algeria Discovered 2004 Eucrites come from the surface of Vesta, and this has been definitively proven through petrologic analyses of these meteorites and comparing them to the spectral analyses of the Vestan surface. Eucrites are achondrites which mean that they come from large differentiated bodies such as asteroids or planets in our solar system. Achondrites are the rarest type of stone meteorite and are highly desired by collectors. The NWA 2650 stone was initially 2,224 grams, which is very large for an achondrite, but it has since been cut into slices for distribution and study. This specimen is a complete slice from near the center of the stone and possessing near the maximum surface area possible for a sample of this rare meteorite. It measures 132 x 94 x 3 mm thick (5.2 x 3.7 inches) and weighs 93.6 grams, and displays beautiful interlocking crystals of white plagioclase and gray pyroxenes with veins of darker shock-melted mineralization. This slice has a complete rind of the shiny black fusion crust, formed by the melting of the surface of the meteorite as it fell through the atmosphere that is so characteristic of the Eucrites. A large and fine display specimen. Estimate: $1800-$2500
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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MOON ROCKS! The following two lots are Lunar meteorites. Meteorites from the Moon are exceptionally rare. There are only 48 lunar meteorites known and their total combined weight is less than 30 kilograms, making them millions of times rarer than gem grade diamonds. However, most lunar meteorites reside in museum collections and research institutions, leaving only 10 kilograms or so available to collectors in the whole world. Since acquiring an Apollo moon rock is virtually impossible, requiring the navigation of a legal minefield of Federal law, the only realistic way to own a piece of the moon is by acquiring a lunar meteorite. In order for a piece of moon rock to get to the Earth, it must be blasted off the lunar surface with enough velocity (approximately 1.5 miles per second or 5,400 miles per hour) to escape the Moon’s gravity – this necessary velocity is called “escape velocity” and the more massive the planet, the greater the escape velocity. The rock or meteoroid must eventually intersect the Earth’s orbit, possibly hundreds of thousands or millions of years later, and be captured by its gravitational field into a decaying or unstable orbit. Eventually, friction from the atmosphere will degrade the kinetic energy of the meteoroid so much that it will spiral down to the Earth’s surface in a fantastic fiery display which is called a meteor. If the meteor reaches the surface, it will be called a meteorite. However, less than one in a trillion meteoroids that enter the atmosphere will reach the Earth’s surface – which explains the incredible rarity of extraterrestrial rocks on our planet. Only the very largest of all asteroid or meteoroid impacts on the Moon’s surface would be powerful enough to eject lunar rock away from the impact site at escape velocity or better. Indeed, scientists have identified only 35 possible craters large enough to be the source areas for all lunar meteorites.
41238 A VERY LARGE AND AESTHETIC SLICE OF THE MOON NWA 2995 Paired Individual Lunar Feldspathic Breccia Algeria Discovered 2005 This specimen is a slice of a beautiful, very fresh, feldspathic fragmental lunar breccia that contains many FHT (Feldspathic Highlands Terrain) fine-grained rock types including norite, olivine basalt, gabbro and others. This meteorite comes from the lunar highlands which cover 84% of the Moon’s surface, so meteorites from the highlands are more common than those from the “seas” or maria. In fact, over half of all known lunar meteorites originate from the FHT. This type of lunar meteorite is produced by shock-welding lunar soil (previously described above) and is composed of multiple types of rock from at least four generations of impact events which successively blasted the lunar surface rock apart and re-welded it into a new breccias – repeated at least four times. There is some impact or thermal melting as well as shock-melting in pockets and veins. The source of the material for the breccia was not the regolith (the top surface soil of the Moon), but deeper fragmented lunar soil with no exposure to the solar wind or cosmic rays. Because the source rocks for the lunar soil are from the highlands, only the very oldest lunar rock types are usually represented with ages of approximately 4.2 – 4.3 billion years old. This gorgeous slice has the added attraction of being virtually indistinguishable from an actual Apollo Mission moon rock with its large white anorthosite fragments being offset by the dark gray and black background matrix. This slice has a very large surface area for the weight and measures 37 x 19 x 1 mm thick and and weighs 1.6 grams. It also has a rind of desirable fusion crust on the edges. Only a few museums in the world possess a lunar sample with this large a visible area. A superb, eye-catching lunar meteorite. Estimate: $4500-$5500
41239 MOON ROCK WITH FUSION CRUST NWA 2995 Paired Individual Lunar Feldspathic Breccia Algeria Discovered 2005 An end piece from the same meteorite as the previous lot. Though smaller, this outstanding specimen is covered with fusion crust on the rough end and displays the gray and black matrix with whitish inclusions so characteristic of Moon rocks on the polished side. It measures 13 x 9 x 3 mm thick and weighs 0.30 grams. Estimate: $1500-$1800
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METEORITE FROM MARS Most Martian meteorites found on Earth are believed to have been blasted into space during a single event which occurred 175 million years ago – a gigantic meteoroid or asteroid impact so huge that some of the rock ejected by the monstrous nuclear-strength blast reached escape velocity (11,178 miles per hour near the surface) and left the Martian orbit. The ejected rock fragments, called meteoroids, would follow long elliptical orbits around the Sun with a few intersecting the Earth’s orbit. Even fewer of these would approach close enough to be captured by the Earth’s gravitational field and, finally, after a journey of 100 million miles, and likely much more, fall into decaying orbits so that they would eventually spiral down the gravity well and smash into the surface of our planet. There are only 50 known Martian meteorites, so they are roughly equal in rarity to lunar meteorites with only a few kilograms of difference between the total known weights of both types.
41240 THE RAREST OF ALL METEORITES FROM MARS — A CHASSIGNITE NWA 2737 Martian Dunite North West Africa, Morocco Like lunar material, Martian meteorites are millions of times rarer than gem grade diamonds. Out of all of these Martian meteorites, there are only two Chassignites: Chassigny, the namesake of the class, and NWA 2737, the specimen offered here. The Chassignites are dunites, which are primarily composed of very iron rich olivine, which can come in a gem form called peridot, and are believed to have formed very deep in the Martian crust in giant magma chambers when Mars was still volcanically active some 1.36 billion years ago. The reason that they are so rare is that they sample very deep layers of the Martian crust and possibly even the mantle. The asteroid impact that caused the ejection of all Martian meteorites was large enough to excavate deeply into the Martian surface but, the deeper the rock, the greater the escape velocity – so only a very few percent of the source rock would have come from these deepest layers, the majority coming from surface rocks. Scientists have been so intrigued by this exceptionally rare meteorite that more than 22 scientific papers have been published so far on this very important find! NWA 2737 has a dark, granular greenish-black texture with the predominant olivine appearing to be almost black. Normally olivine would have an emerald green color with transparency or translucency as shown in the pallasite slices offered in these same pages, but the olivine in NWA 2737 was so heavily shocked during the impact event and ejection from the Martian surface, that it is almost opaque – thus, the black color. NWA 2737 has the added distinction of containing a new type of mineral that had never been seen before. This specimen is an exceptionally large sample from this extremely rare meteorite – no American museum or scientific institution has anything even half this size in their collection. Measures 45 x 34 x 2 mm (1.75 x 1.3 inches) and weighs 9.46 grams. A truly matchless museum quality specimen! Estimate: $28000-$32000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41241 A METEORITE POSSIBLY FROM THE PLANET MERCURY — AN ANGRITE NWA 4662 – Paired with NWA 2999 and NWA 3164 Angrite Morocco Discovered 2004 Angrites are an exceptionally rare type of achondrite meteorite and are from a parent body much closer to the Sun than Earth. They were formed as the result of a very large impact which penetrated to the mantle of the parent body and mixed crust and mantle materials along with the impact body, thought to be a very large iron meteorite, resulting in the unique characteristics that only Angrites possess. Several mineralogical and structural characteristics point to Mercury as the origin for the Angrites, but the evidence is insufficient to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Mercury is the parent body. Thus, we can only hope that more of these exotic and extremely rare meteorites are found so that the source body can one day be definitively identified. Angrites are rarer than meteorites from the Moon or Mars and are likely the rarest and most desired class of meteorite from a large asteroid or planet. The specimen represented here is a full slice from a complete individual, measuring 45 x 36 x 2 mm thick (1.75 x 1.4 inches) and weighing 7.2 grams. It is characterized by large polygonal grains of anorthite (pink-purple), shocked olivine (black) and spinel (ruby red) contained in a fine-grained matrix. This meteorite is quite beautiful in thin sections or reflected light with the ruby-colored grains of spinel standing out in sharp contrast to the other minerals. Estimate: $2500-$3500
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41242 CANYON DIABLO — NATURAL, PRIMITIVE TABLETOP SCULPTURE FROM THE BEST PRESERVED METEORITE CRATER ON EARTH Iron, coarse octahedrite Meteor Crater, Coconino County, Arizona Like most meteorites, the following lot originated in the asteroid belt, but approximately 45,000 years ago this specimen was part of an errant asteroid that plowed into the Arizona desert with the force of more than 100 atomic bombs. While fragments were ejected more than 11 miles away from the point of impact, the main mass vaporized, creating the most famous and best-preserved meteorite crater in the world-the renowned “Meteor Crater” near Winslow, Arizona, nearly one mile across and 600 feet deep. Canyon Diablo (“Canyon of the Devil”) is the quintessential American meteorite, prized by museums and private collectors everywhere, and this is a superb tabletop example. With a deep gunmetal patina and a gently bowed arch on the left margin, this roughly circular form, evocative of a primitive abstract sculpture, has soft ridges and a finely textured surface. Accompanied by a custom armature and a Macovich Collection provenance. 125 x 133 x 68 mm (5 x 5.25 x 2.5 inches) and 3532 grams (7¾ pounds). Estimate: $3000-$4250
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41243 CANYON DIABLO METEORITE — PALM-SIZED IRON AMERICAN METEORITE Iron, coarse octahedrite Meteor Crater, Coconino County, Arizona Similar to the previous lot, this is a palm-sized meteorite from the same event just described. While it stands in a variety of positions, a scoop on the reverse was most probably created by the ejection of a graphite nodule. With softened ridges separating its numerous faces, this is a lively fragment of the asteroid belt – like all iron meteorites – recovered at Canyon Diablo (“The Devil’s Canyon”), the most famous American meteorite impact and the best preserved meteorite crater on Earth. 58 x 61 x 52 mm (2.25 x 2.5 x 2 inches) and 489 grams (1 pound). Estimate: $500-$800
41244 CAMPO DEL CIELO — SUPERB IRON METEORITE Iron, coarse octahedrite Gran Chaco, Argentina Almost 4000 year after its fiery descent to Earth, the Campo del Cielo meteorites were reported by Spanish explorers in Argentina in 1576. The first large meteorite on display at the British Museum of Natural History was a “Campo”, and many other large masses from this fall are to be found in the finest museums throughout the world. Covered with well-defined regmaglypts – the small thumbprintlike impressions in the fusion crust caused by burning and melting as the meteorite falls to Earth – this fine and intriguingly-shaped example is from the strewn-field on higher ground, discovered almost 400 years after the Spaniards’ first reports, where the meteorites were subject to considerably less weathering and rusting than those that fell in the valley, and as a result are considerably more sought after by collectors. Measuring 13½ x 11¼ x 8¾ inches, weighing 66 pounds, and comes with a metal display stand. Estimate: $5,000-$6,000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41245 CAMPO DEL CIELO METEORITE — COMPLETE METEORITE FROM “THE VALLEY OF THE SKY” Iron, coarse octahedrite Gran Chaco, Argentina Nearly 4000 years after having collided with Earth, Campo del Cielo (“Valley of the Sky”) meteorites were first written about in 1576 by Spanish explorers when their unearthly origin had yet to be understood. More than 100 tons of meteorites have since been recovered from the Campo site. The first large meteorite displayed at the British Museum of Natural History in 1826 was a Campo, and several large masses have been graced with names such as El Taco, El Toba, and El Mataco and can today be found in the foremost museums throughout the world. Rather small by comparison, and nameless, this meteorite nonetheless captivates and enchants. The asteroidal texture (which is paradoxically predominantly the result of exposure to the elements on Earth over a period of hundreds of years) is rendered in a natural charcoal patina. The anvil-like flat edges of this specimen reveal that it broke along a crystalline plane. This Campo also features fusion crust and regmaglypts – unusual for Campos. 159 x 81 x 66 mm (6.25 x 3.25 x 2.5 inches) and 2686 grams (6 pounds). Estimate: $700-$1100
41246 A SLICE OF THE TUCSON RING — THE MOST UNIQUE IRON METEORITE IN THE WORLD Iron, anomalous, structural ataxite Box Canyon, Near Tucson, Arizona The Tucson Ring is the most well known iron meteorite in the world primarily because of its exotic shape but also because of its storied history. It was first reported by Jose Velasco of Sonora, Mexico in 1845 from his treatise on mining in the region. He described a mountain pass, Puerta de los Muchacos (today known as Box Canyon), in the Sierra de la Madera range (Santa Rita Mountains today) where large masses of pure iron were found at the base of the mountains. He described how one of the medium-sized masses was taken to Tucson, 30 hard miles away, where it was used as an anvil for the garrison blacksmith. Somehow a second large mass was taken to the garrison between 1845 and 1850 again to be used as an anvil, and this meteorite became known as “The Carleton”. Pieces of the Ring were analyzed in 1852 and determined to be of meteoritic origin. In 1856, The Ring was abandoned as an anvil until 1860 when medical officer Bernard Irwin found the abandoned Ring and took possession of it for the Smithsonian Institution. The Carleton went west to California for display until 1939 when it was purchased by the Smithsonian and reunited with the Ring in Washington. The Tucson Ring is unusual in that its mineralogy indicates that it was formed during a cataclysmic event whereby a small planet or asteroid was blasted apart by gravitational shear or impact with another body. As the body broke apart, the molten material ejected into space cooled and formed meteoroids and new asteroids. The Tucson Ring cooled very quickly, indicating that it was part of a smaller remnant mass from the core or mantle of the destroyed planetoid. This is proven by the fact that the nickel-iron did not have time to crystallize and form the distinctive Widmanstatten figures that characterize and identify most iron meteorites – the Tucson Ring will not show Widmanstatten figures when etched because it was quenched quickly after the cataclysm. The Ring also has inclusions of clear glasses, further proving that it was quickly cooled. The Tucson Ring is the most highly sought-after iron meteorite in the world because only a small piece was removed from a knob on the inside margin of the Ring for analysis by the Smithsonian and no more will ever be removed. This means that the supply of this meteorite amounts to only a few hundred grams available to all of the scientific institutions and collectors worldwide. An excellent part slice of this exotic and extremely rare meteorite weighing 4.7 grams and measuring 25 x 15 x 2 mm thick (1 x 0.5 inches) and showing some of the small glass silicate inclusions that characterize this famous meteorite. Estimate: $2800-$3200 110
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41247 TATAHOUINE — FROM THE ASTEROID BELT AND THE HOME OF LUKE SKYWALKER Diogenite – ADIO Tunisia While 99.8% of all meteorites originate from the vast area between Mars and Jupiter referred to as the asteroid belt, Tatahouine is one of the few meteorites known which possesses a specific address of origin (the other noteworthy examples being Martian meteorites and samples of the Moon). Diogenites are an exotic meteorite class that scientists believe originated from the asteroid Vesta, and Tatahouine is a one-of-a-kind diogenite. On July 27, 1931 just outside the Tunisian town of Foum Tatahouine, a meteorite descending through the atmosphere exploded into thousands of small fragments, most of which weighed less than one gram. The specimen offered here – collected by noted French meteoriticist Dr. Alain Carion and his son, Louis – is an exception. Given its distinctively olive green matrix, striated black shock veins and accretions of shock melt, there is no other meteorite that looks remotely like Tatahouine. In a different vein, the home planet of Luke Skywalker was named “Tatooine” in acknowledgement of the scenes of Star Wars shot near Foum Tatahouine. 28 x 12 x 7 mm and 5.1 grams Estimate: $175-$250
41248 ARROYO MALO METEORITE — FROM THE 2008 METEORITE SHOWER THAT FELL ON THE URUGUARY/ARGENTINE BORDER Chondrite Arroyo Malo, Uruguay On April 6, 2008 a meteorite shower rained down on an area that straddles the Uruguay/Argentina border. It was initially reported that farmhouses and fences were struck in Berduc, Argentina; similar reports later came out of Arroyo Malo (“Bad Lake”), Uruguay. Some of the most pristine stone meteorites to strike Earth in years were found in both areas. It is now reported that the bulk of the modestlysized shower occurred on the Uruguayan side of the border, but is this coincidental to the newly restrictive Argentine laws concerning meteorites? While it’s unclear whether most of the meteorites recovered are truly Uruguayan, or whether they were provided a dual citizenship, what is clear is that the superlative sample of extraterrestrial real estate offered here is enveloped in fresh black fusion crust, originates from the asteroid belt and landed in Uruguay where it was purchased by a reputable dealer from a local farmer. An outstanding, pristine example of one of Earth’s newest arrivals. 57 x 37 x 33 mm (2.25 x 1.5 x 1.5 inches) and 119 grams. Estimate: $700-$1000
41249 STONE METEORITE SPHERE FROM THE SAHARA DESERT — INTERNAL STRUCTURE OF A STONE METEORITE REVEALED IN THREE DIMENSIONS L4-6, fragmental breccia Sahara Desert, Algeria This is an example of NWA 869 – the 869th meteorite classified following its recovery in the Northwest African grid of the Sahara Desert. This meteorite is part of the largest Saharan meteorite shower – every single piece of which is referred to as NWA 869. Given the relatively large amount of material, and the fact that it is a common chondrite (the most common variety of meteorite), some of the meteorites could be fashioned into spheres. While a great deal of material is lost in the grinding and fashioning processes, spheres such as this example showcase the beautiful gradations of cream-to-chocolate hues and the dappling of metalflake suspended throughout the matrix. A compelling presentation of a beautiful stone meteorite, 40 mm in diameter (1.5 inches) and 123 grams (1/4 pound). Estimate: $400-$600
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41250 UNUSUAL STONE METEORITE RECOVERED IN THE SAHARA BY BERBERS Chondrite The Sahara Desert, near the Moroccan/Algerian Border Meteorites from the Sahara were a great rarity prior to the late 1990’s. No more. The single biggest catalyst to an explosion in meteorite recovery occurred in 1995 as a result of the collections of meteorites provided by the Macovich Collection in the first natural history auctions. The extensive international media coverage of the meteorite section of these first auctions sparked the public’s interest in meteorites to previously unheard of proportions. Said natural history expert Henry Galiano, “News of the prices attained by meteorites at auctions in the midnineties made its way across the ocean and motivated legions of new meteorite hunters, primarily from Germany and France, to explore the Sahara in search of more material.” These hunters enlisted the local Berber and Bedouin communities to search on their behalf. Thousands of stone meteorites were recovered in the past decade – including dozens of planetary examples, e.g., meteorites from the Moon and Mars – a major boom to science. The fascinating, surprisingly dense example offered here is shaped like an anthropoidal coffin. Two prominent faces are covered in fusion crust (the result of meteorite’s blazing descent through the atmosphere) while two other faces are fractured and provide a peek at the meteorite’s interior. A galaxy of chondrules (small masses of silicate which are diagnostic in the identification of stone meteorites) are seen on the surface of the matrix and are presumably embedded throughout. A large amount of free metal is also seen, which is what provides the density of this specimen, and this meteorite is ferromagnetic (it’s attracted to a magnet) like most common chondrites. This unusually angular stone meteorite (see Arrolyo Malo to compare the shape with that of a more typical example) also features a thin vein of impact melt cutting across the meteorite’s surface. With a sublime, naturally sandblasted patina, this specimen has never been – and should not – be subdivided for further analysis given its unusual form. Every indication is that it’s a typical stone meteorite which just happens to be most uncommonly shaped. 82 x 47 x 40 mm (3.25 x 2 x 1.5 inches) and 263 grams (1/2 pound). Estimate: $900-$1300
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41251 NORTH WEST AFRICA (NWA) 99 — A LARGE COMPLETE SLICE OF A STONE METEORITE H6 The Sahara Desert, Eastern Morocco This is a beautiful complete slice from one of the earliest meteorites found and classified in the North West African grid of the Sahara Desert. Meteorites are typically named after the nearest city, county or geological feature from the point of impact. When there are no such landmarks, such as in the middle of a massive desert, meteorites are numbered. As there was no geographic marker near where this meteorite was recovered, its name derives from it being the 99th meteorite analyzed from what was designated by scientists as the “North West Africa” corridor, an area covering thousands of square miles. NWA 99 was purchased by a meteorite hunter in Erfoud, Morocco in 2000 at the beginning of the Great Saharan Meteorite Rush. (NWA meteorites are now well past NWA 5000 and counting). The meteorite from which this slice was derived was found by Berbers, most likely in Morocco or perhaps near the Morrocan/Algerian border. It was the media’s coverage of the sale of meteorites in the first natural history auction – like the one in which you are now participating – which became the catalyst for a new generation of meteorite hunters to scour the world’s deserts for more meteorites, the result has been an unprecedented boon to meteorite research and commerce as well as the recovery of the meteorite currently offered. This complete, softly trapezoidal slice is rimmed in fusion crust – the result of the meteorite’s blazing descent through the atmosphere. Two large, perpendicular metallic inclusions accent the warm ochre matrix, which dramatically contrasts with the glimmering particles of nickel-iron and a galaxy of grains scattered throughout. A fine representation. 189 x 161 x 3 mm (7.5 x 6.5 x 0.1 inches) and 209 grams (0.5 pounds). Estimate: $700-$1000
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41252 ALLENDE METEORITE — AN END PIECE THAT CONTAINS THE OLDEST MATTER THAT CAN BE TOUCHED, TRUE STARDUST Carbonaceous-CV3 Chihuahua, Mexico The most studied meteorite in the world, Allende contains interstellar particles that are believed to have formed during an explosion of a super nova prior to the formation of our solar system. This was the first material to have condensed out of the hot nebular gasses that initiated the formation of the planets. In effect, the white calcium-aluminum inclusions (CAIs) seen here are aggregates of “stardust” – the oldest material mankind can ever physically touch – and Allende is among the few meteorites to contain such particles. This end piece, part of a meteorite shower which descended on Chihuahua, Mexico on February 8, 1969, also features 70% fusion crust on the reverse – evidence of the meteorite’s fiery descent through our atmosphere. Its light charcoal matrix is loaded with CAIs, spherical chondrules and a myriad of other inclusions. This is a select example of one of the most scientifically important meteorite showers in history: more than one hundred scientific papers have been devoted to the study of Allende meteorites. 58 x 32 x 22 mm (2.25 x 1.25 x 0.9 inches) and 49.7 grams. Estimate: $500-$650
41253 MOLDAVITE — TEKTITE FROM LOCENICE Moldau River Valley, Czech Republic Tektite is a silicate glass formation, the origin of which was long considered a mystery. The name comes from the Greek tektos, meaning melted, and it is now agreed that tektites are formed when a meteorite slams into the Earth. The immense heat and pressure of the impact liquefies terrestrial rocks, splashing them into the upper atmosphere; these liquid rock droplets then return to Earth as solidified glass. Moldavite is named for the river valley in which it was first found in the Czech Republic, a result of the asteroid impact that created the 14.5 mile diameter NördlingerReis crater near Stuttgart in Germany almost 15 million years ago. Moldavite is prized for its clarity, shape and green color, all of which this specimen displays beautifully; light passing through the specimen reveals its lovely green color, the clarity indicating a high silica content (in moldavite, typically 80%). Pieces of moldavite were valued as talismanic objects in Paleolithic times, worn as pendants in the Middle Ages, and in the 17th-19th centuries it was often offered by men to their fiancées as a charm to assure harmony in their forthcoming marital relations. Moldavite is found in two grades, regular and museum. This piece shows the pale translucence and fine fern-like patterning and texture of the latter; an exquisite example, this specimen measures approximately 1⅝ x 1⅝ x ¾ inches and weighs 28.35 grams. Estimate: $400-$600
41254 LIBYAN DESERT GLASS — WHEN AN ASTEROID AND THE EARTH COLLIDE Libya Sahara Desert Tektites are silicated glass formations whose origin was long considered a mystery. Today scientists agree this phenomena, whose name comes from the Greek tektos, meaning “melted,” is the result of an asteroid slamming into Earth. The extraordinary heat and pressure that result from such impacts liquefy terrestrial rocks, which are splashed into the upper atmosphere before returning to Earth as solidified glass. Tektites are terrestrial in origin and are named after the locality in which they are found, hence: Australites, Indochinites, Phillipinites, Libyan Desert Glass, etc. The higher the silica content of the material melted, the lighter the color. Libyan Desert Glass is 98% silica (molten sand) and is sunny yellow whereas other tektites range from green to charcoal. This is a translucent example of the smooth, golden tektites found in the sands of the Sahara Desert between Libya and Egypt – but as a result of mineral impurities, it’s an engaging, rarely seen shade of chartreuse. Weighing precisely 300 grams, it’s large as tektites go, and its surface character is the result of countless years of sandblasting by desert winds. The dark nimbus is also the result of a mineral impurity; something in addition to the Sahara sands having been liquefied by the colossal impact that resulted in this natural glass form. 109 x 80 x 48 mm (4.25 x 3 x 2 inches) and 300 grams. Estimate: $1100-$1500
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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PALEOLITHIC ARTIFACTS
41255 CLASSIC PALEO CLOVIS STYLE POINT Approx. 11,500 B.P. Hancock Co., Kentucky, USA This lovely Clovis point boasts good flutechanneling and excellent mineralization and patterning. It was finely knapped from beautiful speckled blue-gray Fort Payne chert and subsequently resharpened at least three times, which reduced the dimensions to the present size of 2½ inches long by 1 inch wide. With certificate of authenticity. Estimate: $1200-$1500
41256 CLASSIC PALEO CLOVIS STYLE POINT approx. 11,500 B.P. Pike Co., Ohio, USA This fine fluted Clovis point has a beautiful light milky gray color with pale tan highlights, knapped from Coshocton flint. It measures 2½ inches long by 1 inch wide, but would originally have been about ½ inch longer before two resharpenings. With certificate of authenticity. Estimate: $1200-$1500 41257 CLASSIC PALEO FLUTED CLOVIS POINT Approx. 11,200 B.P. Jackson Co., Kentucky, USA This fine Clovis point measures 3⅛ inches long by 1⅛ inches wide and has been finely fashioned from dark Coshocton Flint with small milky-white highlights. The Clovis point is the oldest style point from North America and they have been found associated with extinct Mammoth, Mastodon and Bison kill sites. The present example shows two resharpenings which reduced the original length and width of the blade. With certificate of authenticity. Estimate: $1500-$2000
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41258 EXTRA LARGE EARLY TO MIDDLE ARCHAIC SPEAR POINT 6,000-4,000 B.P. Indiana, USA This is an uncommonly large blade, finely wrought from pink and gray speckled Harrodsburg chert and displaying beautiful mineralization and excellent symmetry. It measures an impressive 6⅛ inches long and 2⅜ inches wide. With certificate of authenticity. Estimate: $1250-$1650
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41259 EARLY ARCHAIC ELK RIVER BLADE 8,000-5,000 B.P. Tennessee, USA This superb early Archaic knife blade is in excellent condition with classic characteristics and oblique parallel flaking with a smooth patina. Made from attractive rust-colored Dover flint, it has squared shoulders and a slightly recurvate blade. At 4⅝ inches long and ⅞ inches wide, this is a very high quality example of a rare and beautiful Archaic knife and is presented with a certificate of authenticity. Estimate: $1200-$1700
41260 SUBLET FERRY POINT Dale County, Alabama A single classic Sublet Ferry Point from Sand Hill in Alabama. It is complete and dates from the Late Archaic to Woodland Period (4000-2000 years B.P.). The point is consistently well flaked and uniform in appearance. Found by Kari Martin, and authenticated by Len Wiedner, noted Indian Relic expert. It measures 3 inches by 1 inch across. Estimate: $1000-$1500
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41261 LARGE EARLY TO MIDDLE ARCHAIC BLADE 5,500-4,000 B.P. Taney Co., Missouri, USA This outstanding Archaic Knife displays beautiful coloration due to the white and gray striped Dongola chert from which it was fashioned. It measures 4⅝ inches long and a full 2⅛ inches wide, with fine knapping to both sides. Fine examples of Archaic blades such as this are becoming increasingly hard to find, and this example is presented with a certificate of authenticity. Estimate: $800-$1200
41262 FINE COLLECTION OF 20 LARGE NEOLITHIC POINTS 4,000-9,000 B.P. Sahara Desert These 20 variously-colored gem points come from the baking sands of the Sahara Desert, where years of exposure to the intense gamma radiation of the North African sun have given them a rich patina combined with a light burnished effect caused by windblown sand polishing. They are finely knapped from chert, chalcedony, jasper, quartzite and flint with a variety of shoulder and serration forms. The largest measures 1⅞ x ⅝ inches and they are presented in a 16⅜ x 12⅜ inch Riker mount. Estimate: $2000-$2500
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ZOOLOGY
41263 FINE TROPICAL BUTTERFLY DISPLAY CASE Various species and localities This fantastic display case is glazed on both sides the better to show off the dazzling array of colors and patterns found on the wings of these 100 different species of butterfly. From the large iridescent blue wings of the Morpho, to species with orange and black tiger stripes, or the swirling black and white patterns matched with red, white and black upper wings, it seems as though all possible configurations of shape, size and coloring are represented here. There is a list of the species attached to the base of the mahogany frame, and the case measures 35 x 25 x 1⅞ inches. Estimate: $1800-$2500
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41264 MOUNTAIN LION FULL-BODY MOUNT Puma concolor The Mountain Lion (Cougar) is the largest cat in the Western Hemisphere after the Jaquar. They are very alert and elusive cats, shy, and largely nocturnal. In areas where allowed to overpopulate they can cause great damage to sheep herds and have been known to attack humans in some cases. This mount is a mature Tom, exhibiting very high quality taxidermy, and measures 62 inches long and 24 inches high, on a rocky diorama base. Estimate: $4000-$5000
41265 AFRICAN SERVAL CAT FULL-BODY MOUNT Leptailurus serval The African Serval is a slender, long-legged cat with large oval-shaped ears and a yellowish golden buff coat, heavily marked with black spots, bands and stripes. They live in the open savannas, from lightly bushed country to forest, particularly near marshy places or rivers, and can also be found on high mountain moorlands. These beautiful cats are omnivorous and prey on small animals, lizards, fish, and vegetable matter, and they can be quite destructive to poultry and small stock. Because they are nocturnal, they are rarely seen or taken in the wild. This fine specimen has very good taxidermy quality and measures approximately 39 inches long and 19 inches high, on a diorama base. Estimate: $1300-$1800
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41266 AFRICAN CIVET CAT FULL-BODY MOUNT Viverra civetta This beautiful cat comes from southern Africa and is mainly nocturnal. Although they are carnivorous, fruits and insects also form part of their diet. Rarely seen or harvested, this fine example is a mature male with a beautifully spotted and striped coat and excellent quality taxidermy, measuring approximately 42 inches long and 16 inches high. Estimate: $1250-$1750
41267 SOUTHERN WHITE RHINO SHOULDER MOUNT Ceratotherium simum simum The largest land animal after the Elephant, yet nearly exterminated by the early part of this century, the Southern White Rhino has been brought back to a healthy population level of around 12,000 in a classic example of good game conversation and management. The 4-strong wild population of Northern White Rhino has not been sighted since 2006, however. The Southern version’s numbers are increasing and it is considered ranging and regularly hunted, a wary and elusive game animal that can be a challenge for a hunter on foot. This particular specimen is a real skin mount whilst the horns are artful fiberglass reproductions of the originals. The mount stands 56 inches from the wall to the nose and is 53 inches high and 27¼ inches wide. The front horn is 23 inches long and 26 inches around. This is an extremely rare and well-executed taxidermy mount. Estimate: $6000-$8000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41268 AFRICAN GIRAFFE NECK MOUNT Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa Giraffe live in dry country, covered with bush and acacia; they penetrate into light forest, but never into dense forest. Gregarious, they live in herds ranging in size from 2 or 3 to 40 head, sometimes even up to 70; old bulls, however, are often solitary. This particular mount has excellent quality taxidermy and extends 48 inches from the wall to the nose, measuring 39½ inches high and 22 inches wide. Estimate: $2550-$2850
41269 TEXAS LONGHORN STEER SHOULDER MOUNT These long-horned cattle were first brought to Texas about 200 years ago by the Spaniards and have thrived here ever since; they were in fact the first breed of cattle to prove they could survive in North America. This example has nice, fairly large horns that spread 45½ inches across, and the mount stands 35 inches from the wall to the nose and 52 inches high. Estimate: $2750-$3500
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41270 LARGE AMERICAN BISON SHOULDER MOUNT Bison bison The American Bison once roamed the prairies by the millions. Now, after being almost lost forever to indiscriminate slaughter they are making a great comeback on many ranches throughout the mid-west and Texas. This example is a very large Herd Bull with a full thick buff and beard, measuring 50 inches high and standing out 42 inches from the wall. Estimate: $2500-$4500
41271 MUSKOX SHOULDER MOUNT Ovibos moschatus wardi The name “Muskox” refers to the strong, musky odor emitted from the male’s facial glands during the rut. Muskoxen are believed to have immigrated to North America over the Bering land bridge at the height of the glacial age. The Takin of Asia are the only surviving members of the primitive tribe Ovibovini, which at one time had an extensive distribution in the Northern Hemisphere. This particular mount exhibits excellent quality taxidermy and is a rather large Bull, measuring 42 inches from the top of the back to the bottom of brisket and standing approximately 28 inches from the wall. Estimate: $1850-$2350
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41272 SABLE ANTELOPE SHOULDER MOUNT Hippotragus niger niger One of the world’s most beautiful animals, the Common Sable is found south of the Zambezi River. Elusive and quite expensive to hunt, these animals have always been one of the most sought-after trophies for many Big Game Hunters. This particular specimen has horns measuring 40½ x 41 inches long with bases that are approximately 10 inches around. It was taken in Zambia and is in excellent condition with excellent high quality taxidermy. From the wall to the nose it measures 25½ inches and stands 49 inches high. Estimate: $1850-$2500 Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41273 RECORD CLASS GRIZZLY BEAR SKULL Ursus arctos This is a very large Boone & Crockett Record Book Grizzly Bear Skull. The Grizzly Bear grows larger than the Black Bear, but is smaller than the Coastal Brown Bears or Polar Bears. They are omnivorous which eat vegetation and bugs as well as meat. When cornered or wounded they can be extremely dangerous and can easily tear a person to shreds. This skull measures 16⅛ inches long and 9⅞ inches wide and comes with an official Safari Club International score-sheet. Estimate: $900-$1200
41274 TIMBER WOLF SKULL Canis lupis This Wolf skull is especially large, with powerful jaws and large, well-developed meat-eating teeth. The North American Timber Wolf is the largest member of the canine family. They are indigenous to Alaska, British Columbia, and the Yukon. This particular skull is from a very large male and measures 11 inches in length by 6¼ inches wide. Estimate: $400-$600
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41275 NARWHAL TUSK Monodon monoceras Unlike any other cetacean, the narwhal is the strangest and rarest of all species of whale to be found in the modern day oceans. Nicknamed “the unicorn of the sea” the narwhal is one of the most unusual-looking animals on our planet today, related to the beluga and the irawaddy dolphin, but distinguished by the unique growth of its left tooth to form a spear reaching up to 10 feet in length – its Latin name means “one tooth, one horn”. A native of the Arctic oceans, it was once thought that the distinctive tusk was a tool for breaking through the thick ice covering its native waters, or that perhaps its use was primarily ritual. Typically the elongated tooth is found only in the male of the species, although some few examples of a female tusk have been recorded. Recent research suggests, however, that unlike the protruding horn-like teeth and tusks found in other mammals, that of the narwhal may in fact be a sensory organ; electron micrography reveals millions of tiny tubules leading from the surface of the horn and apparently connecting to the nervous system; such tubules are found in many species, but do not typically extend to the outer surface of healthy teeth. Long known to the Inuit peoples of the north, the narwhal was thought in their mythology to have been created when an Inuit woman was dragged into the sea and wrapped around the harpoon that she carried, the other end being embedded in the body of a beluga whale. In medieval Europe, however, the horn was thought to be that of the unicorn and they were sold for considerably more than their weight in gold, prized for their supposedly magical properties; in the 16th century Queen Elizabeth of England paid an astounding 10,000 British pounds for one carved and bejewelled example, for which money at the time she could equally have bought herself another castle. Elsewhere, two crossed narwhal teeth adorn the entrance to the Korninkaku Palace in Japan, and multiple teeth comprise the frame of the Danish throne. Worth more than their weight in gold to the Vikings, they were also used to fashion cups and thought thereby to negate the effect of any poisons that might have been slipped into the drink they contained. The present example measures 56¼ inches in length and exhibits the classic left-handed helix structure. Comes complete with documentation allowing it to be sold within the United States. However, it is important to note that this lot cannot be exported outside of the United States and therefore we cannot accept bids from buyers outside of the U.S. Estimate: $5500-$6500
41276 AFRICAN ELEPHANT TUSKS Loxodonta africana The African Elephant is larger than the Asian Elephant (the one most usually found in the zoos and circuses). They are a thriving species, and are even overpopulated in some areas due to strict hunting regulations. They can often be destructive to farmers’ crops and are very dangerous when cornered or wounded. Each of this fine pair of tusks measures 54 inches along the outside curve and 15 inches around the circumference. They are from a mature trophy Bull and are in excellent condition, mounted via brass collars to substantial walnut display bases. Estimate: $17500-$20000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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fossils: AMBER & copal
41277 SPECTACULARLY RARE — A LARGE LIZARD PERFECTLY PRESERVED IN PREHISTORIC AMBER Anolis dominicianus ? Oligocene Dominican Republic This extremely rare and scientifically important specimen is the largest lizard ever found in amber. In fact, it is the largest complete animal ever discovered in amber and among the finest fossil vertebrates known to exist. Amber is the common name for fossilized tree resin, or sap, which seeping from the trunks and branches of prehistoric flora 30-90 million years ago would occasionally trap an unwitting insect in its slow but sticky and inexorable path. Such specimens are highly prized, for, distinct from fossils; they represent the incredible preservation of a life form physically unchanged over millions of years. Almost unheard of, however, is for a nugget of amber to contain an animal as large and spectacular as the 3½ inch long lizard we have here. Only a handful of geckos and lizards have been discovered preserved in this way, making this specimen one of the very rarest prizes on the Natural History market. Held suspended in its golden cage, it could almost be swimming, and so perfect is the state of preservation – every detail of the skin and the muscle structure beneath, the articulation of the digits and their protruding claws, is as clearly visible as it would have been in life. It is likely that this lizard perished prior to falling into the tree sap as evidenced by signs of decay. A few insects are present and clearly visible inside this specimen including 3 ants and 4 small flies, which were probably attracted by the scent of the lizard. This large polished amber nugget is stable, though there are a few hairline fractures which have been reinforced. The lizard measures 3½ inches in length with curved tail and the amber measures 3½ inches long. This extraordinary specimen was examined and authenticated by Dr. George Poinar, retired Professor of Entomological Sciences at the University of California, Berkley. Dr. Poinar is a world renowned authority on amber and the fossils found within, having authored more than 40 scientific papers on amber and several books. The present specimen has been published in 2 of Dr. Poinar’s books, one of which, “The Amber Forest, A Reconstruction of a Vanishing World”, is included with this lot. Estimate: $90000-$100000
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41278 EXTREMELY RARE LIZARD PRESERVED IN COPAL Anolis sp. Pleistocene Andes Mountains, Colombia, South America Large vertebrates such as lizards are extremely rare to be found in ancient tree resin due to the fact that they are usually strong enough to escape. The present example represents the largest known lizard ever discovered entombed in Colombian copal measuring close to 2½ inches in length. By examining the fossil lizard trapped inside this clear honey-colored copal nugget we can hypothesize that perhaps this large lizard was dead, and partially scavenged, shortly before it fell (or dropped) into the sap flow. This is evidenced by the fact that small portions of the left front and hind limbs are absent. Otherwise, this fantastically preserved reptile is virtually complete and retains magnificent detail from head to tail. Even some of the tiny scales that cover its body can be seen along with some of the small claws. Another interesting aspect of this extraordinary copal specimen is the multitude of other fascinating inclusions such as numerous enhydros (trapped water) and insects including winged termites; ants; beetles; wasps; fungus gnats; a moth and spider. This clear, well polished nugget measures 3½ x 1⅜ inches. Estimate: $2500-$3500
41279 MATING FLIES IN BALTIC AMBER Eocene Samland Peninsula, Russia This pair of prehistoric gnats was going about their natural business years ago, when a slow inexorable ooze of tree resin overcame them. 34-56 million years later, they remain perfectly preserved as though in suspended animation, locked together in a ghastly mating ritual for all eternity. Every last detail of their anatomy and reproductive activity can be observed through the pale golden amber nugget, measuring approximately ½ x ½ x ¼ inches; insects in amber are rare but rarer still are those preserved in copula, as here, a fascinating snapshot of the cycle of life from millions of years ago. Estimate: $1000-$1400
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41280 AMBER-ENTRAPPED FLY Oligocene Dominican Republic This unsuspecting winged insect was caught in the sticky ooze of tree sap that over 30-90 million years slowly hardened and fossilized into what we today know as amber. The large polished nugget measures 1¾ x ⅞ x ⅜ inches and exhibits wonderful clarity. With several other small inclusions and what appears to be the leg of a rather larger insect whose greater strength presumably allowed it to free itself from the sticky fly-trap, leaving its limb behind. But the fly is the real prize, perfectly preserved and visible in fantastic detail, from the membranes of the wings down to impossibly slender antennae, preserved forever as though in suspended animation. Estimate: $350-$500
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41281 AMBER-ENTRAPPED INSECTS Oligocene Dominican Republic This beautiful large polished nugget of golden amber is a fantastic example of the fossilized tree resin that is sometimes found to contain small insects that were trapped in its oozing path, 30-90 million years ago. In this instance, along with some small floral specks and delicate bubbles, the nugget contains a large flying insect, measuring approximately ⅜ inches long, with two sets of wings, perfectly preserved as though in suspended animation. Trapped for eternity with this unfortunate bug are two smaller flying insects, and a tiny, delicate spider. This cornucopia of ancient entomology measures 1½ x 1⅜ x ½ inches overall. Estimate: $350-$500
41282 SPIDER IN AMBER Oligocene Dominican Republic As the sticky resin of the prehistoric trees that blanketed modern-day Central America 30-90 million years ago oozed slowly down their trunks, small insects would sometimes find themselves trapped in the inexorable goo. As the resin fossilized into clear golden amber, the trapped bug would be preserved forever in suspended animation. Most often they are small gnats or midges, but occasionally one finds something rather more interesting, as in the case of this fantastic spider. Perfectly preserved in every detail, it sits as though still in motion, swimming through its golden-colored prison. One can make out the hairs on its legs, the markings on its abdomen and even, when held up to the light, the translucence of its entire anatomy. This beautiful nugget measures 1⅛ x 1 x ½ inches. Estimate: $350-$500
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41283 RARE MAYFLY IN BALTIC AMBER Eocene Samland Peninsula, Russia This gorgeous honey-gold nugget is the fossilized resin of a tree from 34-56 million years ago. As it made its slow way down the tree trunk, it trapped in its path this unfortunate mayfly, whose fate was to be preserved in perfect suspended animation for all eternity. Unlike fossils, amber-entrapped insects represent the perfect and physically unchanged preservation of prehistoric creatures, and in its little golden prison, this insect can be examined in all the detail of its anatomy, right down to the delicate veined wings. The nugget itself measures approximately ⅝ x ⅝ x ⅛ inches. Estimate: $1000-$1400
41284 FIGHTING ANTS IN BALTIC AMBER Eocene Samland Peninsula, Russia At one end of this large, golden honey-colored amber nugget, there have been preserved two tiny prehistoric ants, locked in a fighting embrace of death, their never-ending struggle captured for all eternity. The sticky tree resin that engulfed them in their combat slowly hardened over 34-56 million years until taking on the form in which we find it today, beautiful translucent amber. As a result, every last detail of their anatomy and their tangled pose remains perfectly visible through the golden window of time, in a nugget that measures approximately 2½ x 1 x ½ inches. Estimate: $1100-$1500
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41285 FEEDING POND SKATER TRAPPED IN AMBER Oligocene Dominican Republic The perfect preservation of an insect physically unchanged over up to 90 million years is only possible through the fossilization of tree resin. As the sticky substance oozed from the tree, it would often trap unwitting insects in its path, and over millions of years would fossilize into the beautiful golden amber we know today. This is a superb example, a small polished nugget of beautiful color, enclosing a delicate pond skater, visible in every physical detail and distinguished by its long slender legs; incredibly, on close examination it appears as though there is a much smaller insect struggling to escape its grip as the pond skater forces its prey into its mouth – a moment of natural history preserved forever in suspended animation. This amazing snapshot of a prehistoric moment in time is preserved in a ¾ x ⅚ x ⅜ inch nugget. Estimate: $350-$500
41286 RARE BLUE AMBER NUGGET Oligocene Dominican Republic Under artificial light, or when backlit by the sun, this nugget appears to be of a normal yellowish hue, but when placed in direct sunlight, it springs to life with the beautiful glow of rare blue amber. A variant of the usual form of fossilized tree resin, blue amber is found only in the amber mines and deposits around Santiago in the Dominican Republic, and in some parts of Mexico. The phenomenon is similar to phosphorescence, or fluorescence, and its exact cause has not been categorically established, although many put it down to the presence of anthracene, and the fact that it comes from the Hymenaea protera tree forests which once blanketed what is now Central America. Only a part of this nugget has been polished, creating a window into the interior surrounded by an unprepossessing grey crust that belies the translucence within, and it measures 3½ x 1½ x 1½ inches. Estimate: $600-$800
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41287 FACET-CUT AMBER “GEMSTONE” Oligocene Dominican Republic As the prehistoric resin oozed down the trunk of its tree, anything caught in its path was preserved forever, encased in a golden prison of fossilization, know today as amber. It is extremely rare, therefore, that one finds large samples exhibiting complete clarity. The present example is one such rarity, of such beauty and deep golden brown coloring that it is only fitting that it should have been polished and facet-cut into the shape of a gemstone. It measures 2¾ x 2¼ x 2 inches and weighs in at an impressive 100 grams. Estimate: $1800-$2200
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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paleobotany
41288 PETRIFIED WOOD LOG unidentified species Triassic Indonesia This elegant log section is from the beautiful petrified wood deposits of Indonesia. Millions of years ago, the area was blanketed with thick rainforest and dotted with volcanoes. When the volcanoes erupted, some of the trees that grew on their slopes were instantly destroyed, but others at a slightly greater distance were completely buried in silica rich volcanic ash. This protected the wood from the elements and prevented their decay, and slowly, over millions of years, the silica minerals (quartz, chalcedony, jasper) were carried by water seeping into the wood and replaced the structure of the original tree on a microscopic level, atom by atom. So fine is this process of replacement that the cellular structure can still be observed. Much petrified wood from this area is coarse-grained, making it hard to polish, but the present example is from a finegrained wood and has been polished to a fine almost translucent enamel-like finish all around. The original contours of the trunk have been retained, however, and with the grain still visible to the naked eye and beautiful patination in soft shades of creamy grey flecked with orange and patches of rich dark chocolate brown, it retains the unmistakable appearance of wood. The upper surface has also been polished, perfectly exhibiting the inner structure of growth rings. This superb natural sculpture measures 26 x 13½ x 11 inches. Estimate: $2500-$3500
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41289 FOSSIL PINE CONE Araucauria mirabilis Jurassic (206 to 144 Million Years Ago) Cerro Cuadrado, Petrified Forest, Patagonia, Argentina No longer being exported from Argentina, are specimens such as this wonderful fossil pine cone. The entire cone has been faithfully replaced, molecule by molecule, by quartz. Not only has the surface texture been retained but should the owner decide to, the interior seed structures can be revealed by sawing the cone in half and polishing the matching surfaces. It measures 3 inches in height by 2¼ inches in width by 2 inches in thickness. It is in excellent condition with no damage or imperfections. From an older fossil collection, it was imported legally many years ago. Estimate: $1000-$1200
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mammals
41290 GIANT SABER-TOOTHED CAT SKULL Machairodus giganteus Late Miocene Gansu Dragon Bone Quarries, Central Asia The Miocene savannahs of central Asia literally teemed with life, much like the Serengeti plains of modern Africa. There were massive migrating herds of gazelle, ancient elephants such as Mastodon and Platybelodon, rhinoceros, giraffe and antelope along with an incredible variety of other types of non-herd animals. Huge carnivores such as giant hyenas the size of a bull, monstrous powerful bear-dogs larger than Kodiak bears but could run as fast as a modern lion, 1,500 pound carnivorous wart hogs, and giant saber-toothed cats, all evolved to harvest this incredible bounty. The undisputed king of the Miocene and top carnivore of this savage time was the Machairodus, the largest sabertooth cat of all time. With its huge serrated sabers and powerful muscles, this fearsome hunter was well equipped to bring down all but the very largest prey. Machairodus giganteus is the largest known saber cat in the fossil record and has only been found in Asia. This incredible specimen was liberated in the late 1990’s from the “dragon bone” miners who make their living digging up fossil bones and teeth and ground them into powders for use as traditional Chinese medicines. It is an outstanding and unusually complete specimen with only about 5% restoration. Both sabers are virtually complete and retain the fine serrations that helped make them such effective and deadly weapons, much like a pair of steak knives, in jaws that could exert over 1,000 lbs of force. Only a few small incisors and a premolar were missing and have been professionally restored. There is no burial distortion in the skull so that it is almost perfectly symmetrical which is very uncommon from these digs. Superb quality and detail make this a museum-quality addition to any collection. It measures a massive 16½ inches long by 13½ inches tall by 8½ inches across the cheekbones or “zygomatic arches” with fearsome 4½ inch sabers. These measurements place this specimen within the top 1% of all known specimens for absolute size. It comes complete with a custom-made ebonized steel stand. Estimate: $40000-$50000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41291 FANTASTICALLY RARE SHORT-FACED BEAR SKULL Tremarctos floridanus Late Pleistocene, Rancholabrean Marion Co., Florida, USA The Florida short-faced bear is an extinct relative of the modern day Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus) that flourished at the end of the Pleistocene era, 300,000-10,000 years ago. They were larger than their modern-day cousins, and distinguished by the short snout that provides their common name, and are sometimes known also as the Florida Cave Bear, for their supposed preferred mode of habitat, and ranged along the Gulf Coast from Florida north to Tennessee and westwards to California. Remains of these creatures, however, are exceptionally rare and this skull represents one of the finest and most desirable examples ever seen; never before has one been offered at auction, and rarely do they come up for private sale (the last instance was over eight years ago). In addition, the present specimen is in truly superb condition, with minimal restoration (minor crack-filling to some processes of the vertebrae, rami, incisors, nasal bones and a few areas of skull). It comprises the skull and complete neck (all seven cervical vertebrae) from an adult female, with the lower jaw of a second female, recovered from the same locality. The patination to the bone is outstanding, ranging from an attractive grey-brown to pale salmon and deep dark black coloring on the skull. Most of the teeth are present, and in a similarly fine state of preservation with excellent enamel coverage. It cannot be overstressed what a fine and rare specimen this is, perfectly presented on a custom metal stand with ovular ash base, and measuring 20½ inches long by 6½ inches wide. Estimate: $30000-$45000
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41292 A SUPERB AND EXOTIC GIANT GROUND SLOTH SKULL Lestodon armatus Pleistocene Pampas Beds, La Paz, Uruguay During the Pliocene and Pleistocene, the pampas of South America supported an incredible variety of large Megafauna which included the most diverse assemblage of fossil sloths ever in our planet’s history. While during the same time period in North American, there were only a few varieties of gigantic ground sloths, the South American fauna consisted of dozens from nine different genera. The most bizarre of all of these giant sloths was Lestodon armatus. Its skull is shaped very much like that of a Hippopotamus, even mimicking the widely spread position of the hippo’s murderous incisor tusks. Lestodon, however, was a gentle giant, and spent its days foraging vegetation, admittedly in huge quantities, for it possessed the largest mouth of any sloth in the fossil record! Paleontologists have determined that the wide mouth was an adaptation for bulk feeding. This means that Lestodon did not carefully strip the tender shoots and leaves from branches but, rather, that it ate grasses and herbaceous plants that could be consumed whole. The lips, in concert with the tongue, would have been used to pull out the grasses bushes and ferns, etc. that made up its diet. The peg-shaped teeth would then act like a grist mill to grind the vegetation into compost-like mulch that was swallowed and fermented in the sloth’s stomach for days to extract the nutrients. Lestodon was massive, measuring up to 13 feet tall and weighing up to 3,000 pounds, and probably had very few natural predators. Perhaps only the huge fossil Bear, Arctodus, could have challenged a full-grown Lestodon. Juveniles were likely prey to any of the large carnivores, such as the great saber-toothed tiger, Smilodon, but to reach adulthood was probably a winning ticket to any easy and long life foraging in the great forests and plains of prehistoric South America. An exceptional, nearly perfect skull of this very rare sloth with approximately 15% of its surface professionally restored, primarily in the Nasal area and the cheek bones, or zygomatic arches. It measures an impressive 24 inches long by 18½ inches tall by 12 inches wide across the cheekbones. A truly museum-quality specimen, never before offered on the fossil market, worthy of even the most discriminating collector. Estimate: $30000-$45000
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Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41293 A MASSIVE WOOLLY MAMMOTH TUSK Mammuthus primigenuis Pleistocene Alaska, U.S.A. This huge mammoth tusk has all the characteristics cherished by collectors. It is certainly one of the finest mammoth tusks ever offered to the public. It is very rare that we ever get a perfect mammoth tusk from Alaska with such little restoration, but what is especially unique is the amount of blue coloration present throughout the tusk. The blue color is caused from an iron phosphate called vivianite and is very rare to be found in such large areas of a tusk. Another special feature is the incredible curve associated with this tusk. Typically the double curve is indicative of the mammoth tusks but rarely do we see them so pronounced. The exquisite coloration, natural tip, perfect root cavity and splendid curve make this the ideal piece for the novice or seasoned collector! It measures an impressive 11 feet, 9 inches in length along the outside curves and comes complete with a custom oak display base. Estimate: $45000-$55000
41294 WOOLLY MAMMOTH HAIR Mammuthus primigenius Pleistocene Siberia This is a rare and comparatively large sample of woolly mammoth “wool”, recovered from the frozen carcass of an Ice Age mammoth in the wilds of Siberia. Fewer than forty specimens of this ancient behemoth have been recovered to date, of which all but four have been mere fragments. The mammoth’s skin contained numerous sebaceous glands which secreted greasy fat into the hair to improve further the insulating qualities of its thick shaggy coat, the hairs of which could grow up to 20 inches long. The present sample shows good variation of size between the hairs, some almost as fine as human hair and others that measure almost 1∕32 inches in sectional diameter. Mammoth hair is extremely difficult to obtain due to the fact that soft body tissue rarely fossilizes, and the sample offered here represents a rather larger quantity than one usually finds. Presented in a 12¼ x 8¼ Riker mount. Estimate: $1200-$1800
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fish
41295 UNCOMMONLY LARGE FOSSIL SHARK’S TOOTH Carcharocles megalodon Miocene Morgan River, South Carolina, USA Amongst the most prized specimens for the prehistoric collector are the fearsome teeth of the giant Megalodon, an enormous and deadly forerunner of today’s Great White Shark . These teeth are similar to those of its modern cousin, but considerably larger. The present specimen came from a real monster. Megalodon was the largest carnivorous fish ever to have swum the oceans of our planet, and at over 50 feet in length, its mouth bristling with rows of these monstrous tearing and rending tools, a terrifying beast to encounter in the briny deep. Although their relation to today’s sharks is in some doubt, they shared with them the characteristic cartilaginous skeleton; apart from exceptional circumstances, cartilage is not preserved in the fossil record, and so their amazing teeth are all that remain to us of this great hunter. The present specimen is perfectly symmetrical, with almost full enamel coverage worn over time to a smooth texture with deep parallel grooves and a beautiful gray-black patination. It measures 6 inches long and shows excellent preservation, right down to the tiny serrations along each side which give some idea as to how efficient a cutting tool even one of these teeth would be, never mind a mouth full of them. Estimate: $1500-$2000
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41296 PREHISTORIC SHARK TOOTH Carcharocles megalodon Miocene Suwanee River, Florida, USA In the ancient oceans of the Miocene epoch, 23-5 million years ago, one creature ruled the deep. The fearsome Megalodon was a giant shark-like fish, sharing many characteristics with today’s Great White, including a cartilaginous skeleton, which has meant that next to nothing remains to us in the fossil record of these monstrous beasts apart from the enormous and deadly-looking teeth, much-prized by fossil collectors the world over. Divers must brave freezing and pitch black waters to grub for these marvels along the muddy river bed and only a small number (15%) are discovered intact. At over fifty feet in length, the megalodon was the largest carnivorous fish ever to hunt the earth’s oceans, and just one specimen like this from its enormous jaw is enough to suggest what a horrifying sight a full jaw of these vicious triangular teeth would have been. The present example boasts a most attractive creamy-colored patination, with deep grooves and patches of lovely warm blue-black coloring, and innumerable tiny serrations along each edge, at which one has only to glance to know what terrific flesh-rending tools such teeth could be. It measures 5¼ inches long and is presented on a custom metal and wood display stand. Estimate: $1000-$1400
Auction #6012 • Sunday, January 18, 2009 • 1:00 PM CT
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41297 SUPERB ARMORED FISH FOSSIL Bothriolepis Canadensis Late Devonian, Famennian Stage Escuminac Formation, Miguasha, Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec, Canada The name Bothriolepis means “pitted scale” after the fantastic texture of the bony plating that covered the body of this prehistoric freshwater placoderm (armored fish), the first jawed vertebrates to appear on Earth. When first discovered in 1842 it was mistaken for a tortoise, but was soon re-identified as a placoderm, easily identified today from its boxy body and spine-like pectoral fins. The head is fused to the thoracic shield, and it had a pair of eye and nostril openings on the upper side, and one on the lower for the mouth; it was a bottom feeder of brackish waters, although due to the remains found in the fossil record, it is presumed also to have been able to inhabit salt water. With such a bulky and heavy body, the long pectoral fins were essential to lift itself from the bottom of the water. It is further distinguished by the fact that in addition to the usual gills, it developed a pair of pouches off the esophagus which it has been speculated could function as lungs; this characteristic has made the bothriolepis a much-debated species in creationism arguments, but anatomical evidence gleaned from vertical and horizontal slicing of specimens has given strong weight to the evolutionary view. The present example measures 4⅜ x 5¼ inches and exhibits some of the typical cracking to the carapace, crushed beneath the weight of sediment that accumulated on top of it, but is otherwise beautifully preserved, presented in a recess in the grey stone matrix, measuring 9½ x 9⅛ x 2 inches. The Bothriolepis was the first fish recovered from the now-famous fossil beds of Minguasha National Park, one of the world’s most outstanding records of the Devonian Period, known as the “Age of Fishes”, and a UNESCO world heritage site since 1999. Estimate: $4500-$5500
41298 FOSSIL STINGRAY AND FISH PLAQUE Heliobatus radians Eocene Green River Formation, Wyoming, USA Many of the aquatic animals that lived in the Fossil Lake of the Green River formation were descendants of marine species cut off from the oceans as the North American continents rose slowly from the primordial waters that covered much of the globe. This is the reason why the fossil remains of the traditionally ocean-dwelling sting-ray are found in this once fresh-water location. Like their modern-day descendants, these prehistoric fish were placid bottom dwellers, the fearsome tail barbs providing an excellent deterrent to predators that might otherwise have enjoyed them as a tasty dinner. As might be expected, the remains of these thin, delicate flat fish are rare; their skeletons, like those of sharks and skates, are made up of the dense connective tissue known as cartilage, a characteristic highly antipathetic to fossilization. The strata of the “18-inch layer” of the Fossil Lake make it relatively easy to remove the abundant fossils found there, but the incredibly delicate “wing” bones of the ray present one of the greatest challenges to the excavator, having the thickness of only two sheets of paper. The preparator’s skill is likewise keenly tested in its presentation, and the fine detail of the present example is testament to a master of this most painstaking art. The ray itself has been inset into the matrix and displays a wingspan of 6½ inches and an elegantly curving tail with a dynamically raised spinal column and fine detail to the impossibly delicate structure of the pectoral fins. Milling around it on the plaque are over twenty specimens of the herring-like Knightia that shared these ancient waters, most of which are complete, and display the same remarkably fine detail. The pale orange-brown color of the fossils stands in soft and pleasing contrast to the irregularlyshaped pale limestone matrix, which measures 34 x 24 inches. Estimate: $3500-$4500
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41299 FOSSIL FISH EATING ANOTHER FOSSIL FISH Diplomystus sp. and Knightia sp. Eocene Green River Formation, Wyoming This unfortunate Diplomystus was a
