Description/Interesting Notes:
A historic, old time example of calcite from this classic locale!!! This specimen consists of a
highly complex, calcite crystal "helictite" that exhibits glassy luster and colorless to
pale greenish translucence!!! Helictites are a complex variety of speliothems (the most commonly known speliothems are
stalactites and stalagmites) that exhibit the peculiar tendency to seemingly defy gravity and exhibit all manner of complex and
curvaceous forms!!! Helictites can form on the ceiling or wall of a cave and instead of growing straight down like a stalactite, it
will curve, curl, divide, etc. and sometimes even turn around and grow upward!!! These odd mineral creatures
are so puzzling that there is no clear consensus as to how exactly they form!!! This specimen shows all kinds of
curious forms including snake-like tubes of calcite twisting around the edges of the specimen!!! Upon close inspection one
can see that all of these complex forms actually have networks of complex crystal faces on them as well!!!
This historic material dates to the 19th century (a time when miners were allowed to take these incredible "prizes" because they had
no ore value) and retains an original handwritten label from Moritz Lechner (ca.1830-1904) as well as an old label from
Anton Berger as well!!! This specimen is in fantastic condition for its age and comes to a natural "termination"!!! Very showy and
attractive in person!!! Historic material!!!
The pics hardly do it justice!!! Must be seen in person to be fully appreciated!!! This specimen is from the collection
of Tony Nikischer!!! We just acquired the 6000+ specimen PERSONAL collection
of Tony Nikischer and there are going to be some very exciting minerals to come in the upcoming days and weeks!!!
Good luck and be sure to check out my other exciting mineral auctions on ebay!!!
STAY TUNED!!! MORE AUCTIONS WILL BE ADDED MONDAY NIGHT FOR A SPECIAL 3-DAY AUCTION, ENDING THURSDAY JANUARY 24th!!!
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