Wulfenite

This is a striking wulfenite specimen featuring deep red, tabular crystals with impressive internal gemminess. Wulfenite is closely tied to Arizona and was officially designated the state mineral in 2017. Of all the renowned wulfenite localities, the most famous is arguably the Red Cloud Mine. Dating back to the 1880s, this locality has produced some of the finest and most vibrant specimens.

This particular piece is a fine miniature display specimen showcasing a beautiful cluster of thick, fiery red-orange bladed crystals, measuring up to 1 cm on edge, aesthetically positioned on an oxidized matrix. A few smaller accenting wulfenite crystals add an extra touch of elegance. The crystals exhibit excellent beveled modifying faces around the edges. As collectors often say, “Wulfenite is Love!”

Read about our journey to the Red Cloud Mine on our blog entry here: The Road to the Red Cloud Mine.

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This specimen comes from the collection of Dr. Peter Tarassoff, a prominent figure in mineralogy, particularly known for his work at Mont Saint-Hilaire (MSH). His diligent collecting and examination efforts have led him to be the first to identify at least 35 species and discover 12 new species, not only at MSH but also at other alkaline localities. Dubbed the "Dean" of Mont Saint-Hilaire collectors, Peter was honoured with the naming of the new species petarasite in 1980. He has authored or co-authored numerous mineralogical articles and has been a member of the Mineralogical Association of Canada since 1964. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years, where he was formally appointed the Honorary Curator of Mineralogy. In recognition of his significant contributions to mineralogy, Peter was awarded the 2017 Pinch Medal.