A showy and unique example of cuprite from Tsumeb!!! This specimen consists of a showy cluster of
highly complex, deep red cuprite crystals in association with wulfenite, mimetite, native copper, minor native silver, and
other unidentified species!!! The cuprite is present as a highly complex network of intergrown crystals - some of which
are quite large!!! The crystals are lustrous, undamaged, and show rich red color and marked clarity!!! The
wulfenite crystals are present as complexly etched crystals that are intimately intergrown with the cuprite crystals!!! Upon
close examination with a loupe or a scope, one can see that there are some small areas of microns-thin native copper alteration just
below the surface of the cuprite crystals as well as inclusions of possible native copper within the wulfenite crystals as well!!!
There are also some scattered mimetite crystals present as well, also with areas where it appears there may
be some native copper inclusions/alteration as well!!!
Upon close examination there are numerous tiny areas of native copper present including what appear to be pseudomorphs after
small cuprite crystals!!! In the vuggy areas of the specimen (on the reverse) one can see some small
tufts of grayish-black, almost spongiform material that is reminiscent of highly altered native silver, or the remains of such!!!
There is one tiny grain of native silver present next to a partial wulfenite crystal in this same area and under the scope one
can see some other minute areas of what appears to be native silver!!! In addition to all of this, there is a
significant showing of an unidentified, turquoise blue mineral present as crusts and submillimeter balls as well!!!
A very intruiging example of cuprite with some very interesting and unusual associations indeed!!! Very handsome in person!!!
The pics hardly do it justice!!! Must be seen in person to be fully appreciated!!!
This specimen is from the collection of Tony Nikischer and retains an
original collection label as well!!! We just acquired the 6000+ specimen PERSONAL collection of Tony Nikischer
and there are going to be some very exciting minerals to come in the upcoming days and weeks!!!
Good luck and be sure to check out my other exciting mineral auctions on ebay!!! STAY TUNED!!! MORE AUCTIONS WILL BE COMING SOON!!!
***PLEASE NOTE: We are located in coastal New Jersey and our area has been decimated by HURRICANE SANDY. While Mandy and I are safe and did not suffer any damage, the local area is in very bad shape. The National Guard is here and there has been an overwhelming influx of help and support from all over. We have been lucky enough to have our power restored but there is a critical lack of resources throughout the area. As a result, we may experience some shipping delays and encounter other logistical issues. We thank you most sincerely for your kind wishes and patience during this time. We will continue to offer specimens from the Nikischer collection, as well as other recent acquisitions, during this time however - so don't miss out!!!
