An extraordinary Madeiran citrine with a crystalline

The Lava Chimney — This imposing pair of geodes, together forming a natural sculpture of exceptional visual impact, represents a magnificent example of Citrine Quartz from Brazil. Their slender shape and symmetric arrangement evoke the image of an ancient portal or a “lava chimney,” the name by which similar specimens are known. With a height reaching 174 cm, these two elements, cut from a single large volcanic geode, stand as monumental witnesses to the geological power of our planet. Direct observation of the lot reveals a material and color contrast of great charm. The outer surface consists of the original basalt matrix, a dark, porous volcanic rock that protected the internal cavity. Proceeding inward, one encounters a layer of white to pale calcite, which serves as a transition toward the heart of the geode. The cavity is entirely lined with a dense druse of Citrine Quartz crystals, whose intense coloration falls within the prestigious “Madeira” classification, a warm and deep orange-amber tone. The crystals, of varying sizes but evenly distributed, possess excellent brightness and well-defined terminations that catch and reflect light, creating a sparkling effect. On the crystalline surface, there are also some small calcite rosettes, adding another point of mineralogical interest. The genesis of these magnificent formations dates back millions of years, during intense volcanic events. Gas bubbles trapped in cooling lava created spherical or elongated cavities within the basalt rock. Over geological eras, silica-rich hydrothermal waters filtered through the porous rock, slowly depositing mineral layers inside these “bubbles.” The first layer is usually agate or chalcedony, followed by the growth of quartz crystals toward the center of the cavity. Originally, these crystals were probably Amethyst Quartz, which then underwent a heating process. For specimens with this Madeira-quality and color, it is typically a controlled heat treatment, a stable and universally accepted practice in the industry that transforms the violet color of amethyst into the warm orange of citrine. Beyond its evident mineralogical interest, this lot qualifies as a natural monument-scale work of art. Its size and spectacular aesthetics make it a piece of absolute prestige, ideal as a visual focal point in a luxury hall, an art gallery, a professional studio, or a high-profile private residence. The geode pair can be displayed side by side to recreate the unity of the original geode, or separated to define a space with a symmetrical and powerful presence. It is a piece that beautifully dialogues with contemporary architecture and embodies the essence of modern Wunderkammern, where the wonder of nature meets design. In short, this Madeira Citrine pair is much more than a simple collectible specimen. It is a fragment of Earth's history, a petrified geological story that unites the raw power of volcanic rock with the delicate perfection of crystal. Their imposing verticality and the chromatic fire of their interior make it a natural installation capable of transforming any environment, offering a visual experience of rare power and elegance. Technical details Name: Citrine Quartz (geode pair) Origin: Brazil Maximum dimensions (single highest piece): 1740 x 380 x 360 mm Dimensions of piece 1: 1650 x 345 x 350 mm Dimensions of piece 2: 1740 x 380 x 360 mm Total weight: 359 kg Treatments: Color achieved through thermal treatment, a common and stable practice. Reference: WER-791 CTG-73

Estimate:£32,023.32

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