ADB1 Phosphophyllite

Unificada Mine, Cerro Rico, Potosi Dept., Bolivia

4.3x 4.3x 2.2 cm

$1850

A 2.2 cm, complete fishtail twin of phosphophyllite...on matrix!  Every now and then miners enter the old workings to bring out specimens.  While the majority are shards, on rare occasions complete crystals are found.    

This crystal has a slightly frosted surface and is particularly gemmy around the top, which could probably cut a small stone (but please don't)  The left side of the matrix has been sawed.

The crystal extends to below the little bit of black matrix lying over of its base. 

Under different lighting conditions, the color varies.  The image to the right was taken using a chromalux bulb, the image at the bottom right was taken in sunlight, which makes it look pale.  

All in all, this is a spectacular specimen, and a rare opportunity obtain a matrix specimen of this exceedingly scarce species.