Legrandite - Exceptional Single-Crystal with Perpendicular Accent

Ex. Bill & Anne Cook Collection This extraordinary legrandite specimen originates from the legendary Ojuela Mine, Mapimí, Durango, Mexico, and represents an exceptionally rare and visually distinctive crystal form from the classic mid-1980s legrandite finds. The piece carries outstanding provenance, having come from the esteemed collection of Bill and Anne Cook, long recognized for their discerning eye and focus on top-tier, museum-quality minerals. The specimen is dominated by a single, well-formed legrandite crystal measuring approximately 3.0 cm in length, exhibiting a rich lemon-yellow color, excellent luster, and a broad, unusually wide termination. Unlike the more commonly encountered Ojuela legrandite sprays—often composed of diverging crystals with subdued brownish tones—this example displays a textbook, isolated crystal habit with a notably glassy, refined surface and superior color purity. What truly elevates this specimen is its extraordinary and sculptural crystal geometry: a smaller legrandite crystal is perched perpendicularly across the top of the main crystal, forming a natural cross-like configuration. This highly unusual growth feature adds a dramatic focal point and imparts a sense of deliberate balance and architectural elegance rarely seen in the species. A secondary, flower-like cluster of minute legrandite crystals further embellishes the termination, enhancing the specimen’s visual complexity without detracting from the dominance of the primary crystal. The lemon-yellow crystals contrast beautifully against the earthy brown matrix, creating a striking and immediately recognizable presentation. Measuring 5.4 × 3.1 × 1.8 cm (small cabinet size), the specimen is compact yet commanding, and exceptionally aesthetic from multiple viewing angles. Legrandite specimens of this caliber—single-crystal dominant, richly colored, sharply terminated, and with such a distinctive perpendicular accent crystal—are exceedingly rare, even among historic Ojuela material. Combined with its elite provenance and classic locality, this piece stands as a museum-quality example of one of Mexico’s most iconic and collectible minerals, suitable for the most advanced private or institutional collections.