Banded Agate Obelisk Showcasing Natural Geological Formation from Brazil - Translucent Quartz Microcrystals - Height: 250 mm - Width: 90 mm- 2416 g - (1)

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Georgia Foteinou
Expert
Selected by Georgia Foteinou

Holds BSc in geology and post-graduate qualifications in geochemistry.

Estimate  € 330 - € 380
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Banded agate obelisk from Brazil, a translucent microcrystalline quartz sculpture, weighing 2416 g and measuring 250 mm high, 90 mm wide and 77 mm deep.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

Elegant ornamental agate obelisk, finely carved and polished to accentuate the natural bands — This specimen represents a finely sculpted obelisk from volcanic-origin agate, a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz (SiO2) belonging to the chalcedony group. Its formation occurred by rhythmic deposition of silica-rich solutions within rock cavities, a geological process that produced concentric or parallel banding. Visual analysis reveals complex stratification of tones ranging from ethereal blue-gray to warm dark amber, intersected by pale white bands of purer chalcedony. The glassy luster, achieved through polishing, highlights the chromatic depth and the subtle translucence of the material, particularly in the lighter areas where light penetrates gently. Some micro-inclusions and slight internal discontinuities, intrinsic to the nature of the formation, add character and attest to the piece's authenticity. Provenance from Brazilian volcanic deposits indicates a silica-rich geological environment where slow cooling and the precipitation of hydrothermal fluids favored the growth of these banded structures. The formation process requires significant geological time, making each agate a temporal record of the prevailing environmental conditions. The aesthetic quality of this obelisk lies in its elongated shape and impeccably smooth surfaces that accentuate the agate's natural pattern. The choice of an obelisk sculpture, a symbol of stability and monumental presence, further enhances the mineral's compactness and intrinsic beauty. Each side of the object offers a unique perspective on the intricate bands and color transitions, inviting detailed observation. The condition is excellent, with no signs of damage or significant alterations. The obelisk has been worked while maintaining the material's structural integrity, resulting in a robust and durable piece. It does not require additional supports for display, presenting itself as an autonomous decorative element with a strong visual impact. This specimen qualifies as a fine collector's item, for both mineral enthusiasts and art-object collectors in stone. Its combination of natural aesthetics, precision craftsmanship, and qualified provenance makes it a desirable piece capable of enriching any collection or environment with its elegant presence and geological history.

Seller's Story

The Mineral Art Gallery offers minerals, fossils, shells and natural elements. Born in Italy in 2017, today she collaborates with international galleries and collectors, she is a direct importer of large minerals and naturalistic collectible elements; deals with the processing to insert them inside the living space. A section of the gallery was dedicated to the Wunderkammer, "chamber of wonders or cabinet of curiosities" in which Mirabilia elements are presented: naturalia and italiania, a union between "the present is the past". All lots are shipped via DHL Express and Fercam couriers, with insured parcel and tracking.
Translated by Google Translate

Elegant ornamental agate obelisk, finely carved and polished to accentuate the natural bands — This specimen represents a finely sculpted obelisk from volcanic-origin agate, a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz (SiO2) belonging to the chalcedony group. Its formation occurred by rhythmic deposition of silica-rich solutions within rock cavities, a geological process that produced concentric or parallel banding. Visual analysis reveals complex stratification of tones ranging from ethereal blue-gray to warm dark amber, intersected by pale white bands of purer chalcedony. The glassy luster, achieved through polishing, highlights the chromatic depth and the subtle translucence of the material, particularly in the lighter areas where light penetrates gently. Some micro-inclusions and slight internal discontinuities, intrinsic to the nature of the formation, add character and attest to the piece's authenticity. Provenance from Brazilian volcanic deposits indicates a silica-rich geological environment where slow cooling and the precipitation of hydrothermal fluids favored the growth of these banded structures. The formation process requires significant geological time, making each agate a temporal record of the prevailing environmental conditions. The aesthetic quality of this obelisk lies in its elongated shape and impeccably smooth surfaces that accentuate the agate's natural pattern. The choice of an obelisk sculpture, a symbol of stability and monumental presence, further enhances the mineral's compactness and intrinsic beauty. Each side of the object offers a unique perspective on the intricate bands and color transitions, inviting detailed observation. The condition is excellent, with no signs of damage or significant alterations. The obelisk has been worked while maintaining the material's structural integrity, resulting in a robust and durable piece. It does not require additional supports for display, presenting itself as an autonomous decorative element with a strong visual impact. This specimen qualifies as a fine collector's item, for both mineral enthusiasts and art-object collectors in stone. Its combination of natural aesthetics, precision craftsmanship, and qualified provenance makes it a desirable piece capable of enriching any collection or environment with its elegant presence and geological history.

Seller's Story

The Mineral Art Gallery offers minerals, fossils, shells and natural elements. Born in Italy in 2017, today she collaborates with international galleries and collectors, she is a direct importer of large minerals and naturalistic collectible elements; deals with the processing to insert them inside the living space. A section of the gallery was dedicated to the Wunderkammer, "chamber of wonders or cabinet of curiosities" in which Mirabilia elements are presented: naturalia and italiania, a union between "the present is the past". All lots are shipped via DHL Express and Fercam couriers, with insured parcel and tracking.
Translated by Google Translate

Details

Number of objects
1
Main mineral
Banded Agate Obelisk Showcasing Natural Geological Formation from Brazil -
Mineral form
Translucent Quartz Microcrystals
Supplement
Large Polished Banded Agate Obelisk from Brazil
Weight
2416 g
Country of origin
Brazil
Height
250 mm
Width
90 mm
Depth
77 mm
ItalyVerified
14232
Objects sold
98.4%
protop

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