An interesting thumbnail featuring many well-formed, very sharp, tetragonal to bipyramidal tetragonal (pseudo-octahedral) Hausmannite crystals generously appointed with deep-red micro Andradite Garnets, a classic and somewhat rare association. The Hausmannite presents excellent sub-metallic to almost mirror-like luster. Many are also complexly intergrown, which, upon close examination under glass, is very attractive and interesting, as shown in the macrophotography. There is a minor association with white flattened crystals, most likely baryte (?); the combination of the three rests on a Manganite matrix that is massive to sparkly microcrystalline. The Wessels Mine has arguably produced some of the finest Hausmannite specimens in the world. Sourced from the noteworthy South African dealer Clive Quiet almost forty years ago, this specimen has remained uncirculated in a private collection ever since.
