Bournonite on Rhodochrosite (Ref: 6043)

Peruvian mines are known for their excellent sulfosalts. The Bournonite from the Julcani Mine (#6042) is one example, and this Bournonite on Rhodochrosite from Pachapaqui is another one. Wonderful steel-gray, slightly elongated Bournonite crystals up to 1.1 cm long are scattered on pale Rhodochrosite. The Bournonite crystals have wonderful terminations, excellent longitudinal striation and form a very elegant cogwheel shape (so-called “Rädelerz”) with a great metallic luster. Good Bournonite is a fairly sought after sulfosalt and this specimen fits the bill with excellent overall aesthetics, exceptionally good crystals for the species and the location. As a little bonus, tiny white quartz crystals are scattered throughout the specimen.