Wulfenite. Red Cloud Mine, Silver Dist., Trigo Mts., La Paz Co., Arizona, USA. Photo Heritage Auctions

Wulfenite is a consistent member of all mineral collections with any pretensions to completeness. The bright red-orange of Wulfenite from TheRed Cloud Mine of Arizona, has generated a level of notoriety achieved by few other minerals. Wulfenite specimens considered "choice" possess some key characteristics: fine red-orange color with no hint of brown, multiple crystals with good crystal form and little or no damage, brilliant luster, and last, the crystals are on matrix.

Addressing each of those criteria in regard to this specimen, we find: a.) Color is the deep red-orange of the best specimens, with areas of transparency in some of the crystals, b.) 8 of approximately 10 major crystals show absolute perfection of form with no damage, while 2 of the 10, show evidence of 'contact' with cavity walls. This is not unusual in multiple crystal matrix specimens, and c.) The mirror bright luster of all the Wulfenites is as good as it gets from this locality. In addition, the largest crystal is approximately one inch across, and several are ¾ to 1 inch - very sizable for the locality. There are quite a few smaller Wulfenites scattered among the major ones, lending complexity and increased sparkle to the overall effect. It isn't all that common to have as many good crystals on one specimen and that is probably this examples greatest strength.
Overall measurements: 4.25 x 2.5 x 2.25 inches (10.8 x 6.35 x 5.72 cm) Estimate: $100,000 - $150,000.

Heritage Auctions. 2013 June 2 Nature & Science Signature Auction - Dallas