Description/Interesting Notes:
An incredible, old time example of this rare species from Germany!!! Along with cumengeite, I find these classic whewellite
crystals to be among the most crystallographically impressive in the mineral kingdom!!! These complex, shield-shaped crystals
literally look like faceted gems!!! This is a choice, text-book perfect crystal of whewellite!!! The crystal has pristine,
razor-sharp faces and gem clarity!!! The crystal is undamaged and complete all around!!! I should note that the one
corner that might appear to be damaged in the pics is actually a completely crystalline feature and upon close inspection with a loupe or a scope its
crystalline nature is sharply evident!!! In person, the crystal has dramatic and intense play of light within!!! The crystal is
twinned and the twin plane is clearly visible upon close inspection!!! The crystal has an incredible number of sharp, complex
modifications and faces that make it simply amazing to study in person!!! This is an outstanding example of this rare species!!!
Inerestingly, this crystallographic marvel was named after English naturalist William Whewell, who invented the system of
crystallographic indexing!!! Also, this is one of the relatively few organic mineral species and this is the same mineral
that is responsible for most kidney stones (and also what makes the leaves of rhubarb poisonous!)!!! This is truly an
incredible and fascinating mineral species indeed!!! This is an old time specimen that originally came from the
Freiberg Academy and it retains its original antique, cork-stoppered glass vial!!! Rare, old time material!!!
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 MONDAY NIGHT FOR A SPECIAL 3-DAY AUCTION, ENDING THURSDAY DECEMBER 15th!!!
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