**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: Emerging from a dark matrix shaped as though carved by the depths of the Earth, this delicate micromount reveals one of the most fascinating micro scenes of Romanian realgar: a small forest of fine acicular crystals arranged in radiant red stars that illuminate the surface like tiny incandescent fragments. The crystals display a translucent red of uncommon intensity for specimens of this size, shifting between ruby tones and subtle orange reflections as the light moves across their vitreous faces. Despite its diminutive weight, the piece carries a surprising presence: the realgar needles distribute themselves naturally across the matrix, forming small radiating clusters that resemble crystalline flowers preserved at the exact moment of their growth. The interplay between the grey host rock and the vibrant red protrusions creates a strong visual contrast, further enhanced by the sculptural shape of the specimen, which offers multiple viewing angles and an almost landscape-like depth when observed under magnification. Its Romanian origin adds even greater collectable value. The mines of Maramureș are globally renowned for producing realgar of vivid colour and high purity, yet well defined acicular crystals have become increasingly rare, as modern extraction and the closure of historic workings drastically reduced the availability of fresh material. The impeccable preservation of the crystals with no visible signs of alteration to pararealgar confirms that this specimen has been carefully kept, safeguarding the mineral’s natural brilliance. It is, therefore, a precious micromount: small, yet full of character, perfect for collectors who appreciate aesthetics, colour intensity, and delicate crystallisation. Specifications: • Weight: 0.19 g • Weight in carats: 0.95 ct • Dimensions: 11 × 11 × 10 mm • Origin: Baia Sprie, Maramureș, Romania • Mineral: Realgar • Matrix: Silicate rich dark host rock • Colour: Deep red • Transparency: Transparent to translucent • Crystal habit: Acicular crystals, well defined • Lustre: Bright vitreous, gemlike under direct light • Preservation: No visible transformation to pararealgar • Formation: Hydrothermal vein system rich in arsenic sulphides • Rarity: Fine micro clusters increasingly scarce on today’s market • Quality: Collector grade micromount Notable Points: • Fine acicular crystals in vivid red, forming attractive radiating clusters • Exceptional colour saturation and gemlike lustre • Strong contrast between red crystals and dark matrix • Well preserved realgar with no visible alteration to pararealgar • Aesthetic architecture with multiple optimal display angles • Highly sought after Romanian origin • Distinctive micromount ideal for optical display • Rare crystal habit, increasingly scarce on the market • Crystals with translucent to transparent interiors • Beautiful natural composition untouched by cleaning or stabilisation. Collector’s Interest: Collectors of high aesthetic micromounts will recognise in this piece a specimen of remarkable delicacy and visual presence. The fine, translucent crystals are especially prized among arsenic minerals due to their fragility and the difficulty of preserving them in pristine condition. The Romanian provenance further elevates its desirability, particularly for collectors building series focused on arsenic sulphides or classic Eastern European localities. Lapidary Interest: Although realgar is not suited for lapidary cutting due to its sensitivity, the piece holds strong technical appeal for the study of crystal growth, acicular development, and optical behaviour. Its internal colour intensity and response to light make it excellent for macrophotography, mineralogical documentation, and specialised collections focused on arsenical species. ——————- 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