Description/Interesting Notes:
A rare, old time example of gold amalgam from Peru!!! This specimen consists of a complex mass of
native gold and mercury amalgam!!! Although this specimen was collected long ago, it is the result of previous gold placer
mining in the region which has been going on since the late 1800's!!! The use of mercury in the extraction of gold has been known since
the ancient Romans!!! The mercury readily bonds to fine particles of native gold and almost acts like a sticky sponge, sopping up any bits of
gold it comes in contact with until it is fully saturated with gold and can hold no more!!! This material is dense and rigid and has a bright metallic hue!!!
Upon close inspection with a loupe or scope one can see some golden highlights and dense groups of tiny spheres that look like clusters of
silver grapes!!! This specimen is from the A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum and retains an old label as well!!! The pics hardly do it justice!!! Must be seen in person to be fully appreciated!!!
Good luck and be sure to check out my other exciting mineral auctions on ebay!!! STAY TUNED!!! MORE AUCTIONS WILL BE ADDED SATURDAY NIGHT FOR A SPECIAL 5-DAY AUCTION, ENDING THURSDAY JUNE 23rd!!!
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