RHODOCHROSITE "GEM". N'Chwaning Mine, Kuruman, Northern Cape Province, South Africa. Photo Heritage Auctions.

This colorful specimen is from the original find at the N'Chwaning Mine, owned by Associated Manganese Mines of South Africa and now closed. Typical 'gemmy' scalenohedral crystal habit with associated secondary crystals flanking the main one, forming a sub-parallel aggregate. This specimen shows dark red, transparent color with the brown overtones normal for this material. The highly lustrous faces display faint striations and a very few, minute Manganite crystals in recesses. The main crystal has cleavage at tip, otherwise excellent condition.
Overall measurements: 1.75 x 1 x .5 inches (4.4 x 2.5 x 1.3 cm). Offered at no reserve. Estimate: $10,000 - $14,000.

Provenance: Minerals America [Hoppel Catalog # D1935]

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