A beautiful rhodochrosite from the Capillitas mining district, in the Catamarca Province of Argentina. This material is well-known amongst collectors, as this is the only locality in the world that produces these banded stalactites and concretions of layered rhodochrosite. It is known colloquially as "Inca Rose", although there is no evidence to support that the deposit was exploited so long ago. It first appears in the literature in 1873, though natives likely mined the placer deposits for gold in pre-Colombian times. It is stunning when cut and polished, often showing beautiful patterns and layered growth - much like the rings on the cross section of a tree.
This piece consists of a partial stalactite of exceptional, vivid red rhodochrosite that is quite gemmy and actually shows some crystal structure where it has been sliced and polished. The outer rind is weathered rhodochrosite with iron oxides - its yellow coloration provided good contrast to the specimen, accentuating the red of the rhodochrosite perfectly. The specimen could be cut further and make several good slices or a carving or cabochon. It is free of any significant damage. Custom mounting is available at checkout.
