Franckeite (rare matrix specimen)

This specimen was mined in the late 1970’s / early 1980’s. I think it goes without saying that the finest specimens of Franckeite are found at this mine. This is one of my favorite species from Bolivia, as it has an interesting chemistry, unique crystals, and it belongs to the only group of minerals that form naturally “round” or “cylindrical” crystals! Keep in mind that this is one of the rarest sulfosalts in the world, and good display specimens of this material are next to impossible to find.

This specimen is a rich, incredibly rare, good quality, crystallized specimen of the triclinic lead, tin, iron, antimony sulfosalt Franckeite consisting of somewhat "sword"-shaped crystals oriented into spherical aggregates which are sitting on matrix! A very small percentage of the Franckeites from San Jose are found on matrix, and this piece is a great toenail sized specimen for somebody looking to own a rare and displayable piece. This specimen is over 30 years old and was part of the best find of the material.

Specimen # BOL711B300