Rocky Mountain Minerals and Fossils
Topaz with Bixbyite – Topaz Mountain, Thomas Range, Utah, USA
Topaz with Bixbyite – Topaz Mountain, Thomas Range, Utah, USA
Previously sold specimen — shown for reference
A striking topaz with bixbyite miniature from the classic Topaz Mountain, Thomas Range, Juab County, Utah, USA, with provenance from the Mike Menzies collection.
The specimen features a single prominent, sharply formed sherry-colored topaz crystal with excellent transparency and a bright vitreous luster. Several small, sharply contrasting black bixbyite crystals are perched directly on the topaz, including examples near the termination and along the crystal faces. The contrast between the warm transparent topaz and opaque black bixbyite makes the association particularly easy to appreciate.
Mounted upright on a clear acrylic base, the specimen presents extremely well for its compact size. The combination of a gemmy topaz crystal, clearly visible bixbyite association and one of Utah's most recognized mineral localities gives this miniature considerably more collector interest than an ordinary topaz crystal.
Minerals: Topaz, Bixbyite
Locality: Topaz Mountain, Thomas Range, Juab County, Utah, USA
Crystal System: Topaz – Orthorhombic; Bixbyite – Isometric
Mineral Class: Silicate; Oxide
Provenance: Ex Mike Menzies
Dimensions: 1 × 0.75 × 3 cm
