Under the Hammer

Spanning over 100 years of collecting, the Bellanger Collection of Mexican, Namibian and U.S. Minerals was started in 1900 by Albert Bellanger, mining engineer and CEO of the Amelia Mine in Mexico, and continued by his son Jacques, who followed in his father’s footsteps as a mining civil engineer and collector.

The collection, featuring rare and sought-after cumengeites and boleites from Mexico, as well as specimens from Tsumeb, Namibia and old US and world localities, is open for bidding until 30 March. Here, our specialists highlight their top lots coming under the hammer.

Lot 5
Large Single Crystal of Cumengeite

The present offering of a cumengeite is a rare and precious mineral with a striking indigo blue color and unique tetragonal crystalline structure, making it a highly coveted and valuable addition to a serious mineral collector.

Cumengeite has a rich and storied past that has captured the imaginations of collectors and scientists alike. Its fascinating history, along with our evolving understanding of the mineral, only adds to its value and intrigue. Whether a seasoned collector or someone who appreciates the beauty and history of the natural world, the present offering of cumengeite from its type locality is a truly special and unique mineral that is sure to impress and captivate.

Lot 7
Boleite Crystal

Boleite is a rare mineral that was first discovered in 1891 in Boleo, Mexico, where it got its name after. Boleite is typically found as small blue-green crystals and has a unique crystal structure that makes it highly prized among mineral collectors. It is considered rare as it is found in very few locations around the world, and even in these locations, it is typically only found in small amounts. The present offering is a boleite crystal from its type locality with its remarkable sharp cube with a stepped growth.

Lot 20
Azurite and Atacamite

Azurite is a highly collectible mineral due to its intense blue color, often resembling the color of the deep ocean. Its unique crystal structure and patterns, combined with its rich history and significance in art and culture, make it a popular item among mineral enthusiasts.

The present offering is a fascinating combination of two blue and green minerals: azurite and atacamite. Atacamite is a comparatively rare mineral, formed from primary copper minerals in the oxidation or weathering zone in arid climates or in coastal outcrops. With the atacamite’s rarity, this offering is truly a one-of-a-kind addition to any mineral collection.

Lot 51
Fine Pink Cobaltoan Smithsonite

Smithsonite is a popular mineral among collectors for several reasons, including its candy-like translucent colors with unique patterns. The present museum-quality specimen is a fine pink cobaltoan smitsonite from the Tsumeb mine in Namibia, a significant mine that produces a wide variety of rare and beautiful minerals. This aesthetically pleasing smithsonite shows a translucent gemmy pink hue with good luster.

Lot 227
Velvet Malachite and Azurite

Lot 227 is a classic malachite and azurite from Bisbee, Arizona during the 1900. This visual specimen boasts a velvety texture that enhances its luster and adds to its value, making it a must-have for any mineral collector. Super example of two of the most coveted minerals.

Bid in The Bellanger Collection of Mexican, Namibian and U.S. Minerals before 30 March. For more information contact Claudia.Florian@bonhams.com.