69 sunny
I was going to be really depressed today. Tomorrow we head back to snowy northern Michigan. Except for the one I sent out today, all the flat-rate boxes should be awaiting our arrival.
In order to get over this downer I was in, we went to look at some mineral specimens today, and wow, did that turn out to be fun!
This piece of Ray Mine Chrysocolla will make fantastic jewelry.
Close-up of previous specimen.
I was not expecting much when I saw a small classified ad in the paper for two mineral collections for sale. Today we went to see them. What we found was some of the nicest Chrysocolla I’ve seen, from the old Ray Mine. The Ray Mine has not been hunted much in the past few years, but back in the 70’s it produced some of the finest Chrysocolla specimens ever
Drusy (druzy) Chrysocolla on Ray Mine specimen mined in the 70's. The druzy is actually clear quartz over chrysocolla.
A nice selection of Ray Mine specimens.
found, including gem silica, Druzy Chrysocolla, and remarkable cutting and jewelry material. Some of this collection was old material from the 70’s. Joe said he had a friend at the mine, but the last time he (or anyone) was allowed in was a couple years ago. I guess the liability issues came into play as is common in many of the good hunting grounds anymore. I know this will make top-notch chrysocolla pendants.
Joe had many other Arizona specimens that he was weeding from his personal collection, as well as other southwestern and Mexican minerals. Money was exchanged and we left very pleased, but what do you do with approximately 100 pounds of rough rock the day before we leave?
The solution presented itself at a UPS Store nearby that was open, unlike the Post Office today which was on holiday in honor of our Presidents. We wrapped some of the material up with some packaging material Joe had given us, and the store, for a fee, took care of the rest. I carefully explained to them what was valuable, which was not wrapped, and what was not so important (the wrapped stuff). We left the store with a relieved feeling. I now have a good feeling that the valuable druzy will arrive safely.
This striking piece of Peacock Ore (Bornite) is most likely from Zacatecas, Mexico. This particular specimen has amazing colors. Borite is a copper ore.
Bonnie hinted quietly when she spotted a really great piece of Mexican Peacock Ore, so I bought that also.
Man I hate the thought of snow, but we are also eager to get home.