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All auctions / Ethnographical / Polished Mookaite Jasper Sphere - Vibrant and dynamic...
Mookaite Jasper from Australia with distinctive fluid motifs and rich colorations — This magnificent sphere is an excellent example of Mookaite Jasper, a silicoclastic sedimentary rock composed mainly of chalcedony and opal. Formed from silicified radiolarians deposited in shallow waters and then transformed through diagenetic processes, Mookaite is prized for its astonishing color variety and unique patterns. The perfect spherical craftsmanship enhances its geometry and intrinsic beauty, offering a three-dimensional view of its complex formations. The specimen stands out for an exceptionally rich color palette, ranging from deep blood reds to Bordeaux tones, antique pink, and cream, with yellow and orange inclusions and veining that add further depth. The motifs are fluid and organic, almost painterly, creating a sense of movement and dynamism on the glossy surface. The highly smooth finish reflects light with a vitreous luster, highlighting the cryptocrystalline tessellation and the color transitions, while natural fractures are harmoniously integrated into the overall design of the piece. Mookaite Jasper comes exclusively from the Windalia Formation in the Kennedy Range of Western Australia, near the town of Mooka, from which it derives its name. Geologically, this rock formed during the Early Cretaceous, in a marine environment characterized by abundant radiolarian plankton, which after their death accumulated on the ocean floor. The subsequent stages of compaction and silicification gave rise to this particular jasper, rich in silica and often enriched with iron oxides that give it its vibrant colors. This specific specimen captures the essence of Mookaite, presenting an aesthetically high-level composition. The spherical form not only demonstrates skilled craftsmanship but also allows appreciation of the entirety of the geological design, where every angle reveals new shades and color interactions. Its substantial size makes it a focal point in any collection, while the brilliance and depth of color are testament to its quality. The condition is excellent, with the surface free of significant imperfections beyond the natural veins and growth lines that are part of the stone’s identity. The spherical work has been executed with precision, ensuring near-perfect symmetry and a mirror finish that highlights every detail. The absence of a base allows flexible display, leaving to the collector the choice of the most suitable stand to showcase it. For mineral and gemstone collectors, this Mookaite Jasper sphere represents an opportunity to acquire a distinctive and representative specimen of a gem unique in its origin and aesthetic qualities. The combination of intense coloration, intricate patterns, and the exclusivity of Australian origin make it a museum piece, ideal for enriching a geological collection or serving as a high-value decorative element.
Estimate:£360.5
To the auctionView all items fromCatawikiorEthnographical
Estimate:
£360.5
OCT 17 | 10:00 PM
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