Rhodochrosite Slab
La Capillita Mine
Catamarca, Argentina
A fine cross-section slice of rhodochrosite cut from a cave stalactite from this classic locality. The specimen displays a fascinating concentric growth banding with a rich strawberry red and white coloration and excellent polish on both sides. The outside bears the original rough textured surface of the stalactite. Such material was originally produced as a by-product from operating silver mines in this part of Argentina. In the mines, open cavities filled with rhodochrosite cave formations were mined along with the associated silver ore. The supply of these older formations, particularly the better examples, has been slowly depleted as miners and collectors sell off the old material.
Measuring 3 ½ x ¼in
Catamarca, Argentina
A fine cross-section slice of rhodochrosite cut from a cave stalactite from this classic locality. The specimen displays a fascinating concentric growth banding with a rich strawberry red and white coloration and excellent polish on both sides. The outside bears the original rough textured surface of the stalactite. Such material was originally produced as a by-product from operating silver mines in this part of Argentina. In the mines, open cavities filled with rhodochrosite cave formations were mined along with the associated silver ore. The supply of these older formations, particularly the better examples, has been slowly depleted as miners and collectors sell off the old material.
Measuring 3 ½ x ¼in
Sold for
US$ 1,200
inc. premium
Category: Natural History
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