Helvite/ Genthelvite on Quartz with Fluorite
stock #AX-14B-107
Huanggang Mine, Chifeng Prefecture, Hexigten Banner, Ulanhead League
Inner Mongolia Region,
China
8.8 x 5.4 x 4.7 CM (cabinet)
price: $950
A huge somewhat crude but very sharp Helvite series crystal is nestled in a cluster of prase type Quartz. These Helvite crystals are often zoned in this locality and may contain all members of the series (Danalite, Helvite and Genthelvite) in a single prism. This one has clearly also had some secondary alterations, and some parts of the Helvite faces have been encrusted with tiny Quartz crystals. The termination has an extra touch - a purple octahedron of Fluorite perched near the tip adds contrast. No damage, the Helvite is nearly 4 CM tall which is very large from any locale and especially big for Huanggang. An early specimen (prior to 2008) from this now prolific mine. An impressive example of this locale and specie.
An excellent, highly esthetic, sharp and lustrous specimen from the first great find of Helvite in China. The Leichang Mine produced several good to great Helvites in the 2002-3 era; later examples tended to be dull and small in size. This fine example with super sharp crystals to 2.2 CM was sold by Carter Rich in 2003 to George Loud who later sold it back to Carter, it went then to the William Hladysz collection. Old labels and collection cards are included with the piece. Overall in good condition despite the obvious delicate nature of the slender Quartz. Some broken Quartz crystal can be see at some angles and micro chips are on a few edges of the Helvite. Not distracting from display impact this is a very good value for an impressive specimen. Not for an ultra picky perfectionist, and not 5-7K!
Helvite with Spessartine
stock #AX-14B-121
Tongbei, Yunxiao County, Zhangzhou Prefecture
Fujian Province,
China
8.8 x 7 CM (cabinet)
price: $1550
Spring 2013
An exceptionally fine Helvite with great form, color and presentation. The largest crystal is 2.5 CM in diameter, all are in undamaged condition and have the most desirable red to yellow color. The sprinkling of bright red garnets adds an extra sparkle. The location of Tongbei has produced the best Helvites ever seen, and now the location seems to be near the end. These are already modern classics and this specimen is very far above the average with super strong esthetics.
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