Ahlfeldite crystals from Bolivia – miniature specimen as unique piece
This unique piece features rare Ahlfeldite crystals on a metallic gray matrix. The crystals occur as fine, granular aggregates highlighted by yellowish to bluish-green tones that contrast strongly with the dark host rock. Presented as a miniature specimen, the piece illustrates the characteristic appearance of this uncommon nickel selenite.
The specimen comes from the Mina El Dragón in Potosí, Bolivia, one of the world’s most renowned localities for rare selenium minerals. Ahlfeldite is a nickel selenite crystallizing in the monoclinic system. It typically forms granular to crust-like aggregates and is considered an extremely rare collector’s mineral known from only a few localities. Specimens of this quality are therefore of particular value to collectors.
This table is for general information and orientation, although the sizes of the stones may vary. In addition, this specification is handled differently from region to region.
Sizes
Description
approx. Sizes in mm/cm
approx. Sizes in INCH
Capsule
Capsule
0.1–0.5 mm in a transparent hard capsule (approx. 1 cm)
capsule contents 0.1–0.5 mm
capsule contents 0.004–0.02 in
TN/mm
Micromount (TN = Thumbnail)
everything fitting in a TN Perky box or a MM box of approx. 1 in
approx. 0.5–2.5 cm
max. 1 in
Min
Miniature specimen
will not fit a TN or MM box anymore
approx. 2.5–5 cm
approx. 0.2–1.0 in
Scab
small cabinet specimen
approx. one-third to half a hand size
approx. 5–9 cm
approx. 1.0–2.0 in
Cab
cabinet specimen
full hand size
approx. 9–15 cm
approx. 2.0–3.5 in
large Cab
large cabinet specimen
approx. two hand sizes
approx. 15–30 cm
approx. 3.5–6.0 in
very large Cab
very large cabinet specimen
everything larger, no upper limit
Abbreviations commonly used in mineralogy.
Abbreviation
Meaning
xl
single crystal, possible with matrix
xls
noticeable crystals
(xl)
embedded or damaged
(xls)
embeddet or damaged
MASS
massive and/or amorphous pieces
TYP
type locality of the original description
SWUV
shortwave-UV-reaction
UV
ultraviolet reaction
SC
self-collected
U
unique (single unique piece)
Usage Instructions
This product is ideal as a collector's item, decorative element, teaching material, or for scientific and exhibition purposes.
Legal Notices
Safety
We accept no liability for damages resulting from improper and/or non-recommended use. Please carefully assess the suitability of the product before any alternative use.
Responsible Provider
Mikon Mineralienkontor GmbH Steinslieth 11 D-37130 Gleichen OT Klein Lengden
