Rhodochrosite N’Chwaning Mines, Kuruman, Kalahari Manganese Field, North Cape Province, South Africa. Ex. Thomas G. Fowler collection, circ. 1970s. This closed manganese mine once owned by Assoc. Manganese Mines of South Africa, Ltd. has produced what many consider to be the finest rhodochrosite specimens ever found. Due to their rarity they remain one of the most difficult collectable mineral specimens to find in quality pieces. We have available a limited quantity of these rare rhodos due to the recent acquisition of the Thomas G. Fowler collection. The ones listed here show limited or no damage (very rare for this material) and range from a very dark reddish pink to a rich, bright red. All specimens have spectacular luster and intense color saturation, no matter what their color.
This nice three dimensional grouping of crystals measures 3.8 x 3 x 1.4 cm. The crystals are a vibrant red color and in the classic schalenohedral crystal form. With the microscope I can make out one small crushed crystal right near one edge (appearing as white area) but overall the specimen is in very nice condition. Keep in mind I am not backlighting these specimens or changing their color with any computer wizardry. They are as one would expect the finest of this famous material to appear, in-hand. It balances on edge for display but is not as stable as one would like. A very nice piece $2,900