ROMANIA 1

Mountains above Baia Mare

Romanian Minerals

Over 120 confirmed species have been found from the Maramures District. The minerals came from mines in Baia Mare, Baia Sprie, Turt, Baiut, Cavnic, Nistru, Brad, Ocna de Fier, Ruschita, Verespatek and other locations in Romania.

The section is designed in a comprehensive manner with inclusions of specimens of all species, sizes, combinations and price ranges. The premise is to consistently offer specimens from collections to enable a collector of any level to start and build a suite from this classic Eastern European location. We hope you enjoy the minerals! Regards, Ross Lillie

SEPTEMBER 2007 UPDATE:  MINING CEASED. THE PUMPS ARE OFF AND THE MINES FLOODED.

Mining Monument near the City Limits- Baia Sprie, Maramures  2001

Typical countryside near Baia Sprie, Maramures  2001

Miners hand-tramming underground in the Prinzipal Mine, Herja System, Baia Mare, Maramures, Romania 2001

Satu Mare, (south of Gheturi Mine and Turt), Maramures

Romania 2001

New Minerals On-Line December 8th

NSMW9285        BARITE        PRICE: $250.

BAIA SPRIE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Semi-transparent, high luster bladed barite crystals well crystallized on all sides and in great condition. A really nice specimen from workings mined c. 1970s. 4 x 5 x 6 cm.

New Minerals On-Line December 1st

NSMW9239      CALCITE WITH JAMESONITE INCLUSIONS   PRICE: $220.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small Cabinet)

Floater group of elongated calcite balls joined together to form finger-like groups. The deep gray color is from inclusions of jamesonite. There are a small stibnite crystals as well that add a combination classic from this mine. In top condition and mined 2003. 2 x 6.5 x 6.5 cm.

NSMW9219    CALCITE ON QUARTZ WITH DOLOMITE   PRICE: $SOLD

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium Cabinet)

Two calcite crystals, 3 and 3.5 cm, stand side by side on quartz matrix with druse of white dolomite. In excellent condition and mined in 2005. 5.5 x 8 x 11 cm.

SOLD

NSMW9218    GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH QUARTZ    PRICE: $150.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium Cabinet)

Combination of transparent quartz, black sphalerite and dozens and dozens of very bright tiny galena crystals. One-time pocket found in 2005. Some associated dolomite druse off to one side. Nice medium cabinet 4 x 8.5 x 13 cm.

NSMW9202    DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE ON SPHALERITE  PRICE: $220.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium Cabinet)

Light creamy white dolomite after calcite, and, grouped over matrix of lustrous black sphalerite. Along one edge the middle of a small crystal is exposed and it is hollow and lined with dolomite and clearly exposes the pseudomorphed nature. There were a number of these fine crystals produced in the early 2000's. In top condition and mined c. 2004. 4.5 x 6.5 x 9 cm.

NSMW9068    QUARTZ WITH JAMESONITE INCLUSIONS  PRICE: $225.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Perfect, doubly terminated quartz with inclusions of jamesonite that impart a smoky gray color. This is really an exceptionally fine size for this occurrence as most of these are tiny crystals in the 1 cm range and are normally found as complex inter-grown groups. Complete floater and in top condition. Choice miniature from mining c. 2004. 2 x 2 x 4 cm.

NSMW9036    QUARTZ AFTER CALCITE WITH PYRITE   PRICE: $2500.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Large Cabinet)

Hexagonal platy calcites, some with curved faces, pseudomorphed by drusy quartz and richly grouped over a matrix of pyrite and quartz. There are abundant pyrites scattered over the surface that add a good deal of contrast and sparkle. The quartz replaced the calcite very faithfully and as a result the pseudomorphs are distinct and they also stand up off the matrix to display very well. In top condition and a very excellent specimen from this pocket that was mined in 1997. 10 x 20 x 27 cm.

NSMW9035    CHALCOPYRITE AND CALCITE WITH QUARTZ   PRICE: $SOLD

GHEORGE VEIN, BOLDUT MINE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Large Cabinet)

Beautiful combination of brassy iridescent chalcopyrite, wafer-like calcites, bright brassy metallic pyrite and gemmy transparent quartz. There are two spires of crystals that stick up and resemble mountains and are well separated to create excellent visual appeal. The Gheorge Vein was the last major ore body discovered and mined in the Boldut Mine and the material produced from this structure was exquisitely crystallized and attractive. A top cabinet piece from this occurrence in top condition. Mined 2005. 11 x 15 x 21 cm.

NSMW8976  CALCITE ON SIDERITE AND PYRITE   PRICE: $250.

GHETURI MINE, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, near TURT, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Perfect ball-like group of lustrous white calcite perched on light tan siderite and pyrite matrix. Nice miniature from the series of great finds in 2003. 3.5 x 4.5 x 5.5 cm.

NSMW8974      CALCITE WITH ASSOCIATED JAMESONITE    PRICE: $220.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Perfect ball of white calcite perched like an egg in a cup on light brown siderite and associated with jamesonite. Classic and recognizable Herja System specimen from mining in 2003. 3.5 x 3.5 x 4.5 cm.

NSMW8973    BARITE WITH REALGAR INCLUSIONS    PRICE: $200.

BAIA SPRIE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Bladed creamy white barite with abundant inclusions of realgar near the base that imparts a rich orange color. Choice miniature from the great finds of 2005. Displays equally well from either side. 2.7 x 3 x 4.5 cm.

NSMW8968      DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE     PRICE: $350.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small/medium cabinet)

Group of calcite scalenohedrons replaced by light tan lustrous dolomite with several secondary calcites sprinkled over the surface. Excellent condition and a choice pseudomorph from this mine. Crystallized on all sides. Mined 2001. 6.5 x 7.5 x 11.5 cm.

NSMW8966      DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE WITH PYRITE  PRICE: $SOLD

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium Cabinet)

Group of calcite scalenohedrons replaced by drusy dolomite with associated brassy metallic pyrite all grouped on sphalerite matrix. Perfect condition and a very aesthetic and attractive pseudomorph from this mine. This is about as good as one can expect from this pocket for this size. Mined 2000. 6.5 x 13 x 15 cm.

NSMW8740         SEMSEYITE ON SPHALERITE     PRICE: $250.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium Cabinet)

Bladed semseyites on undulating matrix of sphalerite with associated siderite, quartz, and pyrite. There is moderate damage to the semseyites but overall is a very good reference specimen of this rare mineral. Mined c. 1950s-1960s. From a collection in Vienna and comes with the paper label. 4.5 x 6 x 10.5 cm.

NSMW8475     CHALCOPYRITE AND QUARTZ      PRICE: $280.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium Cabinet)

Combination of brassy metallic chalcopyrites and sharply terminated quartz. Classic specimen from the Boldut Mine produced from large pockets that sometimes reached tens of meters in length. These used to be all over the market but have largely disappeared in the last couple of years. Mined c. 2002. In top condition and a very attractive medium cabinet specimen 6 x 75. x 10 cm.

NSMW8302      BARITE WITH REALGAR INCLUSIONS      PRICE: $380.

BAIA SPRIE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium Cabinet)

Group of bladed barite crystals, to 5 cm, with zoned inclusions of realgar. These are older specimens that were mined from the upper levels around the 1960s and early 1970s. The barites have a fine luster and good transluscency and the specimen is in top condition. Very nice overall aesthetics and composition. 4 x 7 x 11 cm.

NSMW8226        BARITE        PRICE: $850.

CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium Cabinet)

Bright and lustrous mound of transparent bladed barites crystallized on all sides and with excellent three dimensional form. These specimens were mined from the upper levels of the mines during the early 1970s. A top piece of medium cabinet size and in top condition. The reverse side has inclusions of jamesonite that impart a deep gray color. Very choice. 7 x 10 x 12 cm.

NSMW8200   DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE ON QUARTZ     PRICE: $240.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small Cabinet)

Perfect ball, 4.5 cm, of bright white dolomite that has replaced calcite. Displays exceptionally well and without damage. Very fine small cabinet from mining 2003. 4 x 4.5 x 6.5 cm.

NSMW8134      CALCITE WITH JAMESONITE INCLUSIONS   PRICE: $250.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small Cabinet)

Stalactitic calcite with inclusions of jamesonite that impart a smoky gray color and a second generation of calcites with even more jamesonite inclusions that contrast as deep gray. Classic Herja specimen mined c. 2005. Small cabinet 2.5 x 3 x 8 cm.

NSMW8063      CALCITE WITH JAMESONITE INCLUSIONS   PRICE: $SOLD

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Complete floater of calcite with copious inclusions of jamesonite that impart a deep smoky gray color. The calcites appear as stalactites and widen toward the terminations. Three phases of calcite are present with the last stage a broad rhomb with good luster. Classic Herja specimen mined c. 2005. No faults. 2.6 x 3.5 x 5 cm.

NSMW8007          ELECTRUM      PRICE: $150.

NAGYAG (SACARIMB), HUNEDOARA COUNTY, TRANSYLVANIA, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Electrum specimens are incredibly rare from Romania. In over 13 years of concerted buying I have only acquired three specimens. This TN specimen has a nice grouping of fine, sharp crystals on micro quartz with associated chalcopyrite and reddish/brown sphalerite. An absolute classic from the great gold deposits of Romania. 25% Ag, 75% Au as determined by analysis in Germany. Mined c. 1790. EX: Baron von Samuel Bruckenthal Collection (No labels), 18th Century collector from Sibiu (Formerly Hermanstad).  1.5 x 1.5 x 2 cm.

NSMW7910       SIDERITE AFTER CALCITE     PRICE: $SOLD

GHETURI MINE, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, near TURT, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Sharp pseudomorph of siderite after calcite with associated iridescent chalcopyrite and green quartz. These are absolute classics from Romania and are readily recognizable as coming form this location since they were essentially unique in occurrence. In top condition and displays the multiple phases of crystallization very well. Mined c. 2005. 4 x 4.5 x 6 cm.

NSMW7881    STIBNITE WITH QUARTZ  PRICE: $SOLD

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Splendent sprays of stibnite with associated quartz crystals. There was only one significant pocket of these specimens found just before the closing of the mine. This miniature has excellent form and luster and exhibits the typical doubly-terminated quartzes from the find. Mined 2007. 3 x 4 x 6.5 cm.

NSMW7878    DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE ON QUARTZ  PRICE: $450.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium Cabinet)

A ball of lustrous, creamy white dolomite pseudomorph after calcite on matrix of quartz and chalcopyrite. The Boldut Mine is the only location in Maramures that produced these excellent pseduomorphs from a series of pockets found in the early 2000's. Complete on all sides and in perfect shape. Mined c. 2004. Medium cabinet 6.5 x 8.5 x 9 cm.

NSMW7823     CHALCOPYRITE ON QUARTZ       PRICE: $125.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature/small cabinet)

Bright and attractive combination of quartz with brassy iridescent chalcopyrite, tetrahedrite and associated sphalerite. Beautiful and aesthetic miniature from mining 2005. In top condition. 4 x 4 x 5 cm.

NSMW7821     QUARTZ WITH JAMESONITE INCLUSIONS    PRICE: $45.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Doubly terminated quartz with numerous inclusions of jamesonite which impart a smoky gray color. These were found loose in pockets full of a pasty jamesonite. No damage. Mined c. 2004. 1.5 x 1.5 x 2.5 cm.

NSMW7803       STIBNITE      PRICE: $125.

POIANA BOTIZI,  BAIUT, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Bladed stibnite with associated pyrite. Fine rosette-like form and in top condition. A classic from the early 1980s. 3.5 x 3.5 x 4.5 cm.

NSMW7802     CALCITE ON QUARTZ     PRICE: $220.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature/small cabinet)

Smoky gray ball of calcite perched on sphalerite and quartz. Complete on all sides and a sharp and attractive piece from this famous Romanian location. No damage. Mined c. 2002. 3 x 4 x 6 cm.

NSMW7801    DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE ON QUARTZ  PRICE: $120.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Creamy/yellow, lustrous dolomite pseudomorph after calcite on quartz. Classic occurrence and specimen from mine. No damage and an excellent miniature from mining c. 2004. 3 x 4.5 x 5 cm.

NSMW7579     DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE WITH PYRITE    PRICE: $380.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, ROMANIA

(Medium cabinet)

Group of very bright and attractive quartz crystals with a druse of light yellow/white dolomite preferentially coating one side of the specimen. A choice medium cabinet specimen from mining c. 2004. No damage. 5 x 5 x 9.5 cm.

NSMW7557       QUARTZ      PRICE: $250.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small/medium cabinet)

A group of prismatic quartz crystals with a light druse of white dolomite along one edge. The crystals diverge and spread out from the base and there are some well developed hoppered indentations on the pyramidal faces at the top. Undamaged and a classic quartz from the mine. Mined c. 1990s. 4 x 5.5 x 10 cm.

NSMW7471        DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE     PRICE: $280.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, ROMANIA

(Medium cabinet)

Clusters of calcite scalenohedrons that have been pseudomorphed by creamy/white dolomite. The matrix is sphalerite and there are several associated light gray calcites that are scattered over the scalenohedrons as a last phase carbonate. Mined 2005. Medium cabinet specimen in top condition. 6 x 9 x 12.5 cm.

NSMW7470       STIBNITE WITH QUARTZ      PRICE: $SOLD

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature/small cabinet)

Floater group of stibnites with associated tiny doubly terminated quartzes. The stibnites have a deep gray/black sheen on one side and very bright silvery gray sheen on the other. These were found in a unique pocket in one of the last discoveries in the mine before closure. 3 x 5 x 6.5 cm.

NSMW7468     CALCITE     PRICE: $120.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, ROMANIA(Miniature)

Stack of rhombic calcites with a silky luster and ivory white color. The top-most crystal is slightly hoppered at the center which is the centerpiece for the specimen and the reason I acquired it. Highly unusual  and without damage. An older specimen mined c. 1990s. 3.5 x 4.5 x 4.7 cm.

NSMW7453     QUARTZ WITH RHODOCHROSITE      PRICE: $250.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

The combination of quartz and rhodochrosite from the Boldut Mine is indicative of the upper levels of the mine where the veins were rich and wide and exceptionally well mineralized with pockets of crystals. This small cabinet specimen exhibits the classic sceptered formations typical of these sections and has good association with light pastel pink rhodochrosite and numerous micro balls of white calcites. Trivial nick along one termination which is evident with 10 X loupe. Mined c. 1980s. 3.5 x 5.5 x 8 cm.

NSMW7441       CALCITE     PRICE: $85. 

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Three interconnected, very bright white calcites on a drusy quartz matrix. There was only one small pocket of these specimens and it turned out to be unique as is typical of so many vugs in Maramures. Mined c. 2004. No damage. 1.5 x 4 x 4 cm.

NSMW7413  BARITE ON SIDERITE   PRICE: $390.

GHETURI MINE, TURT, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

Highly lustrous, semi-transparent rosette of bladed barites, 4 cm across, perched up on matrix of siderite and galena. Sharp, clean with no damage and very aesthetic in all regards. Mined c. 2002. 5.5 x 6 x 6.5 cm.

NSMW7412        DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE    PRICE: $120.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

A floater group of calcites that resemble 'bow-ties' that have been replaced by creamy white dolomite. The crystals are hollow and all are doubly terminated. There was only one small pocket of the pseudomorphs found c. 2003. This is the best miniature I acquired. No damage. 2 x 4.5 x 5.5 cm.

NSMW7382       STIBNITE AND QUARTZ      PRICE: $SOLD

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Fine combination of iridescent acicular stibnite and aggregates of doubly terminated quartzes. The stibnites are rounded off at the tops which was a particular characteristic of this pocket. The quartzes are complete on all sides and the base as well indicating the specimen was found loose in the pocket as a 'floater'. In top condition with a beautiful sheen. Mined/collected 2007. 4 x 5.5 x 5.5 cm.

NSMW7342     SIDERITE AFTER CALCITE    PRICE: $220.

GHETURI MINE, TURT, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

Deep reddish/brown siderite has pseudomorphed calcite and on a siderite matrix. This is the rarest pseudomorph type from the Gheturi Mine that I know of and I have only acquired a precious few of this habit. Mined c. 2004. No faults. 4 x 5 x 8 cm.

NSMW7342     SIDERITE AFTER CALCITE    PRICE: $220.

GHETURI MINE, TURT, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Miniature/Small cabinet)

Single, curved crystal of calcite replaced by light brown siderite with associated pyrite and light orangey-brown calcite. The crystal resembles a clam shell in overall symmetry. This type of pseudomorph from the Gheturi Mine is one of the more rare types as the vast majority were flat-faced rhombs. Mined c. 2004. Complete on all sides and in top condition. 5 x 5 x 6.5 cm.

NSMW7341        DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE       PRICE: $125.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature/Small cabinet)

A spire-like growth of calcite that has been replaced by white dolomite. The center of the specimen is hollow indicating it was likely a stalactitic formation replaced at a later phase of mineralization. In top condition. Mined c. 2005. 4 x 4.2 x 5.3 cm.

NSMW7304     CHALCEDONY AFTER QUARTZ    PRICE: $120.

GHETURI MINE, TURT, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

This is one of the most complicated pseudomorphs I have acquired from this mine. It appears that the sequence of replacement is as follows: siderite after calcite: quartz after siderite: chalcedony after quartz. Sequence based on form of the pseudomorph and comparisons with similar specimens collected at the same time period. Exceptionally rare and a perfect undamaged miniature from mining 2006. 2.7 x 3 x 3.2 cm.

NSMW7295     DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE    PRICE: $120.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA SYSTEM, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Balls of light yellow dolomite replacing calcite and perched on quartz matrix. The balls are complete on all sides and display perfectly. A very high quality miniature from this find c. 2003. In top condition. 3.5 x 4 x 5 cm.

NSMW7291     DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE    PRICE: $220.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature/small cabinet)

Excellent pseudomorph from a unique find in late 2006. Displays very well and in top condition. There is a later-stage partial overgrowth of clear calcites on the light yellow dolomite after calcite and the matrix is sphalerite with associated quartz. In top condition. 5.5 x 6 x 7.5 cm.

NSMW7271         FLUORITE        PRICE: $250.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium cabinet)

Two fluorites perched on slab of matrix with associated white drusy calcite, galena and brassy chalcopyrites. The fluorites, 7 and 8 mm on edge, resemble sugar cubes both in color and luster. Sharp and clean with a rare color from the district. In top condition. Mined c. 1990s. 2.5 x 7 x 9 cm.

NSMW7222   SELENITE    PRICE: $250.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium cabinet)

Bladed groups of selenite richly scattered over matrix of calcite. Displays very well and without damage. Mined c. 2000. 4 x 9.5 x 10 cm.

NSMW7205      FERBERITE     PRICE: $85.

BAIA SPRIE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Lustrous deep brown/black crystals of ferberite in combination with calcite and chalcopyrite. Upon close examination, the calcites are curved into noodle-like forms resembling pasta. One of the more uncommon species from Maramures from mining c. 2000. 1.5 x 2.5 x 3 cm.

NSMW7176           QUARTZ WITH DOLOMITE       PRICE: $200.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, ROMANIA

(Medium cabinet)

Group of quartzes, to 8 cm, in combination with white calcite and chalcopyrite. sharp and clean and complete on all sides with no damage. Mined 2005. 5 x 8 x 8.5 cm.

NSMW7151      CALCITE WITH JAMESONITE INCLUSIONS    PRICE: $225.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

Parallel group of linear stalactites of calcite with jamesonite inclusions which give them a smoky gray coloration. Perfectly terminated and completely crystallized on all sides with no damage. A very fine small cabinet specimen from mining c. 2003. 1.2 x 2.5 x 9.5 cm.

NSMW7149      CALCITE WITH JAMESONITE INCLUSIONS    PRICE: $225.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature/small cabinet)

Deep smoky gray, lustrous calcites with excellent luster and on matrix of sphalerite and light gray calcite. These are unique to Herja and I have not seen anything similar from any other location. Crystallized on all sides and displays from any angle. Very minor abrasions on a couple of crystals but overall in great condition. Mined c. 2002. 2.5 x 4 x 5.2 cm.

NSMW7122             RHODOCHROSITE           PRICE: $SOLD

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Pastel pink rhodochrosite with quartz. Chalcopyrite and galena matrix. Lovely color and a fine undamaged miniature from mining c. 1990s. 2 x 2.5 x 4 cm.

NSMW7119   DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE    PRICE: $125. 

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Bright white dolomite casts after calcite. The calcites have a kind of stacked form with prismatic edges. A classic epimorph from mining c. 1990s. There is an attached number on the back that says 823 which indicates the collection it came from had good depth. No damage. 2 x 4.5 x 6.5 cm.

NSMW7065               SELENITE ON CALCITE            PRICE: $85.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

A rarity. Gem grade selenite (1 x 1.2 cm)on matrix of calcite. The typical habit of selenite is a semi-transluscent or transparent bladed form in radiating or fan shaped clusters. This is the only miniature I can recall of this type. Mined c. 2005. One very tiny little white spot on a corner where the crystal may have been bumped. 3 x 4 x 4.5 cm.

NSMW7059               QUARTZ WITH DOLOMITE           PRICE: $250.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Medium cabinet)

The Boldut Mine is a poly-metallic deposit with the primary recovered ores galena and sphalerite. However, during the mining process huge pockets of quartz and dolomite are found sometimes. This piece is from one of the large cavities found in 2005. Sharp and clean with the classic preferential druse of ivory white dolomite it is a very attractive specimen in top condition. Quartzes typically 7.5-8.5 cm.  7.5 x 8.5 x 10 cm.

NSMW7039        QUARTZ      PRICE: $125.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

A group of quartz crystals scattered over matrix of light tan calcite. The quartzes, typically 2.5-3 cm, have slightly indented or hoppered faces on the terminations which is classic from Cavnic. Very fine separation so the specimen displays really well. No damage. Mined c. later 1990s. 4 x 6 x 7.5 cm.

NSMW7011       SIDERITE AFTER CALCITE ON QUARTZ    PRICE: $220.

GHETURI MINE, TURT, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

A rosette-like group of calcite crystals, 4 x 5 cm, replaced by reddish/brown siderite. This is the rarest form of siderite pseudomorph from the Gheturi Mine, namely, scalenohedral calcites. The matrix is an undulating shell of quartz. No damage and a very fine pseudo from mining 2004. 3.5 x 7 x 7 cm.

NSMW6922      DOLOMITE ON QUARTZ     PRICE: $28.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Snowy-white, satiny lustered dolomite perched on top of quartz. This phase of dolomite is most likely a pseudomorph after calcite. Along the sides of the quartz are white dolomite rhombs. Sharp and in great condition from mining in 2005. 3 x 3 x 4 cm.

NSMW6918  CALCITE WITH JAMESONITE INCLUSIONS     PRICE: $SOLD

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Curved calcite rhombs with no point of attachment and copious inclusions of jamesonite that give the crystals a deep smoky gray hue. Lustrous and fine with no damage. Displays from any angle. Mined c. late 1990s. 2.5 x 5 x 5.5 cm.

NSMW6847       QUARTZ       PRICE: $265. 

BAIA SPRIE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

Cluster of semi-transparent quartz on matrix of fine small crystals. The larger crystals, typically 4 cm, are hoppered on selective faces of the terminations. Sharp, clean and a classic quartz from the district. Mined c. 2001. Displays very well. Specimen was likely found loose in the pocket as there is no evidence of attachment. 5.5 x 6 x 8 cm.

NSMW6812         BARITE WITH REALGAR INCLUSIONS        PRICE: $15.

BAIA SPRIE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Bladed orange barite crystals with no attached matrix. The coloration is from abundant inclusions of realgar which have slightly oxidized to a burnt orange color. These are older specimens from the upper levels and not available from recent mining. Miniature that displays from any angle. Mined c. early 1960s. 2 x 2.5 x 3 cm.

NSMW6724         SIDERITE AFTER CALCITE        PRICE: $120.

GHETURI MINE, TURT, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Very sharp and dramatic pseudomorph of siderite after calcite perched on matrix of siderite with trace of chalcopyrite. The calcite has faithfully replaced by deep brown lustrous siderite. The rhomb, to 2.5 x 3 cm, is complete on one side and show the classic hollow epimorphic casts on the back side. A super miniature from mining in 2006. These are still available on the market since the pocket was large enough to produce some backlog of specimens, however, I am not certain how much longer they will be available. In top condition.  3 x 3 x 5 cm.

NSMW6310       MARCASITE       PRICE: $120.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

Octahedral-shaped crystals of marcasite grown into an elongated mound-like aggregate with no attached matrix. Marcasite is really one of the more rare species in the district and finely developed crystals such as this are difficult to acquire. Mined 2004. No faults. 3 x 5 x 8 cm.

NSMW6139        QUARTZ        PRICE: $120.

BAIA SPRIE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

Two white, semi-transparent quartz crystals with sceptered terminations. One termination is a 'reverse' scepter as it is actually smaller than the prism and the other a classic sceptered form. Both scepters are transparent and the crystals have the overall striations and milky appearance typical of Baia Sprie. Mined c. 2001. No faults. 2.5 x 5.5 x 8 cm.

NSMW6068   CALCITE ON SIDERITE    PRICE: $125.

PRINZIPAL MINE, HERJA, BAIA MARE, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Small/medium cabinet)

Creamy white calcite crystals on a plate of light tan siderite. The calcites are nicely scattered over the matrix and have a light druse of brown siderite around the perimeters which accentuates their morphology and adds good contrast. I have seen just a few of these calcites from Herja. They are typical but not common. Mined c. 2001. In top condition. 2 x 6 x 11 cm.

NSMW5962   CALCITE AND QUARTZ WITH ANDRADITE     PRICE: $120.

OCNA DE FIER MINE, RESITA, SOUTHWESTERN ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Combination miniature of manganocalcites, quartz and light brown andradite. Ocna de Fier is a skarn-type deposit in Southwestern Romania that has been more or less continuously mined for hundreds of years. Specimens are rare, however, and only have recently come to light because of the prices they are realizing. Sharp and clean with example of three major species found in the mine. Mined c. 1970s. In top condition. 2.5 x 4.7 x 5.8 cm.

NSMW5919    DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE     PRICE: $SOLD

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

A calcite scalenohedron which has been replaced by light tan dolomite. The original crystal form is faithfully preserved and there is a fine druse of later-stage calcites sprinkled over the surfaces and a few inside the hollow shell as well. Excellent pseudomorph from a new pocket found in late 2005. In top condition. 3.5 x 3.5 x 6.5 cm.

NSW5762        CALCITE AND QUARTZ      PRICE: $260.

OCNA DE FIER MINE, near RESITA, SOUTHWESTERN ROMANIA

(Miniature/small cabinet)

A combination of light gray manganoan calcites with prismatic quartz and pyrites all on brown andradite matrix. The Ocna de Fier Mine and others in this district are some of the oldest in Europe and they have been mined for hundreds of years for iron ore even back into the middle ages. This specimen is a well rounded plate of crystals with a nice separation of calcites from the quartzes so it displays very well. Specimens from this skarn-type location do not seem to have the 'Broadway' appeal of the Maramures mines but they are never the less very important minerals. Ocna de Fier specimens seem to be around for the moment but they are historically rare and the availability will certainly dwindle in the near future. Mined c. 1970s. In top condition. 3.5 x 6.4 x 10 cm.

NSMW5759     GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH SIDERITE     PRICE: $450.

GHETURI MINE, TURT, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Medium cabinet)

Sharp, cube/octahedral galena crystals, to 3.5 cm, on matrix of galena and siderite. There is an attractive druse of black sphalerites peppered across the surfaces. There are galenas evenly scattered over the entire surface and right to the edges as well which gives the specimen a good visual appeal. A very fine cabinet galena from mining in 2003. No faults to speak of. 5.5 x 9 x 13.3 cm.

NSMW5746     GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH SIDERITE     PRICE: $180.

GHETURI MINE, TURT, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Medium cabinet)

The Gheturi Mine is located near the town of Turt in extreme Northwestern Romania near the Hungarian border. It was overlooked for years by the collecting community because specimens were few and far between. This all changed just a few years ago when superb pockets of galenas and siderite pseudomorphs starting showing up. This specimen is a plate of galena crystals covered with a druse of light brown siderite and then sprinkled over with lustrous black sphalerites. There is an isolated later-stage galena, 2 x 3 cm, set near the center of the specimen and perfectly displayed. This galena has nearly equal development of the cube and octahedron which is classic from this location. Mined 2003. In top condition. 3.2 x 6.4 x 9.2 cm.

NSWM5745        ANDRADITE      PRICE: $280.

OCNA DE FIER MINE, RESITA, SOUTHWESTERN ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

Mounded group of chocolate brown andradite crystals with associated quartz. The garnet crystals are dodecahedral in form. The specimen displays very well since it has good three dimensional form and the garnets, typically 1 cm, are relatively isolated from each other. Classic skarn-type mineral from mining c. early 1970s. In top condition. 5.2 x 7 x 7.5 cm.

NSMW5724        FLUORITE ON CALCITE AND QUARTZ   PRICE: $220.

BOLDUT MINE, CAVNIC, MARAMURES, ROMANIA

(Miniature)

Cubic crystals of fluorite, 7-11 mm on edge, perched up on white calcite which is in turn partially covering quartz. Fluorites are rare from Cavnic when considered in quantity of total specimens produced. This white variety has the classic mosaic textured surface. Many times the fluorites are too small for the size of the matrix and need to be trimmed but this piece has good balance vs. size of the specimen and displays very well as such. In top condition. Mined c. 1990s. 3 x 3.6 x 4.4 cm.

NSMW4768      CHALCOPYRITE AND GALENA     PRICE: $220.

GHETURI MINE, TURT, OASULUI MOUNTAINS, SATU MARE, ROMANIA

(Small cabinet)

A combination of silvery/gray metallic galena,  iridescent chalcopyrite and light tan siderite druse. The chalcopyrites, to 4.5 cm across, have extraordinary size and are preferentially coated with the siderite druse with the exception of light dusting on the galena. This contrast in textures coupled with the finely crystallized galena creates an excellent display specimen.  Crystallized on all sides. Mined in 2003 from a unique pocket. No faults. 3.5 x 7 x 9 cm.

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