Cylindrite, San Francisco Mine, Poopo, Oruro, Bolivia

For those that appreciate truly unique minerals, here is a bizarre tin-lead-antimony sulfosalt whose crystals are actually tiny, rolled sheets that form miniature tubes (hence the name cylindrite). I believe this crystal structure is unique in the mineral world. Not often available, cylindrite is typically sourced from a grouping of mines in Poopo Province in Bolivia, in this case, the San Francisco Mine. This specimen is richly covered with randomly-oriented cylindrite crystals (tubes) and is a perfect example of this rare species. Ex Allan Ingelson collection. From San Francisco Mine, Poopo, Poopo Province, Oruro, Bolivia. Dimensions: 2.5 cm x 4 cm