Detailed information
Dimensions
75 x 83 x 36
mm
Locality
Cornwall England
Condition
No recorded repairs
This beautifully crystallised Cuprite can only be attributed to Cornwall in accordance with its accompanying, charming old Italian label. Sometimes it is possible to suggest where such a specimen may originate, but in this case it is prudent to be satisfied with simply the county name. Octahedral Cuprite crystals, up to 1 mm, richly cover the top surface of a rusty, iron-rich Quartz gossan. Due to the relatively small crystal size and degree of translucency, the entire crystallised face is a lustrous burgundy to metallic maroon. Look closely (using a x5 loupe) and you will see several tiny protruding sprigs of Native Copper, some a bright metallic copper. I also notice what appear to me as small pseudomorphs, micro-crystallised Cuprite replacing tiny tabular crystals, possibly chalcocite[?]. This is only a suggestion with no certainty, but nonetheless a interesting feature. A fine and eye-catching cabinet specimen of Cornish Cuprite with a delightful antique label.
