**Complimentary Specimens** As a gesture of appreciation, every winning lot above €50 will include one extra mineral, added entirely free of charge. For each additional €50, another complimentary specimen will be added. ———— Description: Resting on a compact, dark matrix with a granular texture, this micromount reveals a striking association of vivid red realgar crystals rising from the host rock in sharp, prismatic forms. Unlike softer acicular sprays, the crystals here show more robust terminations and a slightly blockier habit, giving the specimen a stronger architectural presence despite its small scale. Under magnification, the crystals glow with a deep crimson to cherry red hue, displaying internal translucency that intensifies under direct light. What immediately distinguishes this piece is the presence of a metallic golden zone embedded within the matrix. This area displays a granular, reflective surface with a warm brass to gold tone, creating a dramatic chromatic contrast against both the dark host rock and the saturated red realgar. While no definitive mineral identification is asserted, the texture and colour are consistent with iron sulphide mineralisation commonly associated with realgar bearing environments in Romania, adding geological depth and visual complexity to the specimen. The composition feels dynamic and natural: red crystals appear to emerge organically from the darker substrate, with subtle secondary microcrystals scattered along the matrix, suggesting a multi phase mineralisation process. The balance between colour, texture and contrast makes this micromount particularly engaging from multiple viewing angles, especially under macro photography where the interplay of red translucency and metallic reflections becomes especially pronounced. Originating from the classic mining district of Baia Sprie in Maramureș, this specimen reflects the character that made Romanian arsenic minerals world renowned. Well preserved, with no visible alteration to pararealgar, it stands as a fine example of careful curation and long term stability, qualities increasingly important for collectors of sensitive species such as realgar. Specifications: • Weight: 0.62 g • Weight in carats: 3.10 ct • Dimensions: 15 × 15 × 4 mm • Origin: Baia Sprie, Maramureș, Romania • Mineral: Realgar • Associated minerals: Metallic sulphide mineralisation (undetermined) • Matrix: Dark silicate rich host rock • Colour: Deep red with golden metallic accents • Transparency: Transparent to translucent crystals • Crystal habit: Short prismatic to acicular crystals • Lustre: Vitreous on crystals, metallic on matrix zones • Quality: Collector grade micromount Notable Points: • Well defined realgar crystals with strong red saturation • Distinct metallic golden mineralisation within the matrix • Excellent colour contrast between red crystals and dark host rock • Translucent interiors with strong light response • Clean crystal surfaces with sharp terminations • No visible alteration or degradation • Classic Romanian provenance • Multi angle display potential • Ideal specimen for macro and micro photography • Natural, unaltered presentation. Collector’s Interest: This specimen will appeal to collectors seeking micromounts with strong visual contrast and complex mineral associations. The combination of vivid realgar crystals and metallic sulphide mineralisation adds both aesthetic and geological interest, making it particularly suitable for advanced collections focused on arsenic minerals or classic Romanian localities. Lapidary Interest: Realgar is not suitable for cutting due to its inherent sensitivity, yet this piece offers excellent educational and visual value for the study of crystal habit, colour zoning and hydrothermal mineral associations. Its pronounced response to light and detailed surface textures make it especially attractive for macro photography and mineralogical documentation. ——————- Photography and transparency: All photos were taken under controlled light conditions, carefully selected to reproduce the most accurate natural colour of each specimen. No filters, colour enhancement, or artificial saturation were applied. The lighting setup uses a calibrated 5500K light source, which replicates neutral daylight and reveals the true tones and clarity of the mineral. Under weaker or more yellow indoor lighting, colours may appear slightly different, which is normal and expected. The purpose of this setup is to present each specimen exactly as it appears in balanced natural daylight, allowing buyers to appreciate its authentic colour and lustre without distortion. Identification and ethics: All specimens offered are guaranteed natural and as described. Their origin and mineral identification are provided with the most accurate and reliable information available. Every effort is made to ensure that each piece is presented with full transparency, avoiding any misleading details regarding its nature, treatment, or provenance. Shipping and handling: Orders are carefully prepared, with each stone individually protected and placed in a secure rigid box to ensure safe delivery. Shipments are made within 1 to 3 business days after payment confirmation, always with a tracking number provided to the buyer. Each order is handled with professional care from selection to dispatch, ensuring a smooth and trustworthy process. Customs and import taxes: Any customs duties, import fees, or local taxes applied by the destination country are entirely the responsibility of the winning bidder. These charges are not included in the auction price or shipping cost and are determined by the buyer’s local authorities. Guarantee and resolution: Customer satisfaction is a priority. In the event of any issue, such as loss, damage, or discrepancy, please contact us immediately through Catawiki’s messaging system. We will always find a fair and suitable solution, including refund, replacement, or other commercial arrangements whenever justified. Appreciation and commitment: We sincerely thank you for your trust and preference. Our goal is to continuously bring you some of the most beautiful, unique, and exceptional mineral specimens from around the world. Each piece is carefully selected for its quality and character, ensuring that every purchase meets the highest standards. Your satisfaction and confidence are our top priorities, and we will always strive to exceed your expectations with every order. With gratitude, GemPulse Minerals