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All auctions / Ethnographic / Vibrant Polished Unakite Sphere - Green Epidote and Pink...
atural mosaic of green epidote and pink feldspar This lot features a large, substantial Unakite sphere, a visually striking specimen originating from Madagascar. The piece has been expertly cut and polished to achieve a perfect geometric shape, highlighting the intricate texture and distinctive polychromy of this fascinating metamorphic rock. The main feature lies in the vibrant color contrast between pistachio green epidote and salmon-pink feldspar spots, creating a dynamic and decorative surface. Viewing the sphere up close, one appreciates the mirrored finish covering its entire surface, producing light reflections that enhance the depth of the material. The distribution of the mineral components forms a unique natural mosaic: epidote appears in aggregates of intense and variegated green, while orthoclase feldspar emerges with its typical pink-orange inclusions, reminiscent of matte brushstrokes. Among these two main components, smaller areas of gray and translucent quartz can be seen, acting as a binder and adding further complexity to the composition. The spherical shape allows exploring the entirety of its patterns with a simple gesture, discovering new details from every angle. Unakite is the result of a geological process known as metasomatism or low-grade metamorphism, which alters the composition of preexisting granitic rocks. During this process, the plagioclase present in the original granite is transformed into epidote, responsible for the green coloration. At the same time, potassium feldspar (orthoclase) maintains or enhances its pink-salmon hue, and quartz remains a stable component. This genesis gives Unakite its characteristic blocky or brecciated appearance, evidence of a deep transformation that occurred deep within the Earth. Thanks to its generous size and balanced aesthetics, this sphere qualifies as a valuable collectible object and a sophisticated furnishing element. Its presence is ideal for enriching a library, a professional office, or a contemporary design setting, where it can serve as a focal point. As a Wunderkammer piece, or modern cabinet of curiosities, it embodies the union between the perfection of geometric form, man-made, and the accidental beauty of nature. Its solidity and considerable weight convey its essence as an authentic geological fragment. Creating a sphere of such size and perfection from a hard rock like Unakite requires great artisanal skill. The surface shows no processing flaws, but, as visible in the photographs, it reveals some subtle internal fracture lines. These should not be regarded as defects, but intrinsic characteristics of the stone, evidence of its geological history and the stresses endured during its formation. These natural veins add an additional level of authenticity and character to the specimen. Technical details Name: Unakite Sphere Classification: Metamorphic rock Origin: Madagascar Dimensions: 100 x 100 x 100 mm Weight: 1694 g Material: Unakite (Epidote, Orthoclase Feldspar, Quartz) Base: Not present Conditions: Excellent, mirror finish. Presence of natural internal fracture lines, an integral part of the rock's structure.
Estimate:$246.44
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Estimate:
$246.44
OCT 27 | 4:00 PM
OCT 23 | 8:00 AM
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$836.98
OCT 17 | 10:00 PM
