Rhodochrosite on Gypsum (var: Selenite)

The Sunnyside mine is one of the most famous localities in Colorado, not only was it a major Gold producer, but in my mind, it is only second to the famous Sweet Home Mine in terms of quality of Rhodochrosite specimens. The Sunnyside has produced some beautiful Rhodochrosite association specimens that are not seen at the Sweet Home including the incredibly rare and desirable Gypsum associations. These specimens were limited at best (I've been told that there was only one pocket ever found), and only a handful of worthwhile pieces survive in collections today.

This piece is a wonderful specimen of this highly sought after material featuring a beautiful baby pink color group of "rosette"-shaped Rhodochrosite rhombs which are flaring out of the colorless/white, gemmy to translucent, wedge-shaped crystal of Gypsum (var: "Selenite"). The aesthetics and balance are wonderful, and the quality of Gypsum is good for the material. The front in essentially damage free, but the back is contacted where it was removed from the pocket. As you can see the piece displays beautifully with the accompanying lucite base, and if you collect Rhodochrosite, carbonates, Colorado minerals or just rare associations, don't miss out on this one. The only other locality I can think of where Rhodochrosite is found with Gypsum is the Santa Eulalia Mine in Mexico, and those specimens don't hold a candle to the stunning specimens from the Sunnyside. A true Colorado classic from the San Juan Mountains.

Specimen #TUC31701