Aravaipaite crystals, with old label from the Grand Reef Mine, AZ, USA– small cabinet specimen as unique piece
This small cabinet specimen shows Aravaipaite crystals from the Grand Reef Mine in Arizona and is accompanied by an original vintage label. The silvery, reflective Aravaipait occurs in small, irregular aggregates that contrast clearly with the lighter and partly weathered brownish matrix. Fully developed crystals are not visible; however, under magnification the mineral displays a fine-grained, partly reflective surface typical of this rare species. The combination of metallic highlights and the historical label makes this piece particularly desirable for collectors.
Geology & Origin
The Grand Reef Mine in the Aravaipa Mining District (Graham County, Arizona) is a classic locality for rare secondary lead minerals forming in the oxidized zones of polymetallic veins. Aravaipaite develops through the alteration of lead-bearing mineral phases in highly oxidizing geochemical environments involving aluminum and iron. The mine is well known for its diverse assemblage of unusual species and continues to produce sought-after specimens featuring the characteristic silvery Aravaipaite aggregates.