Rare zinc sulfide carving with deep lavender tones and resinous luster
Quick Highlights
- Size/Dimensions: 3.5 × 3 × 4.5 in (approx.)
- Weight: 940 g (2.07 lb)
- Source/Origin: Likely Hunan or Inner Mongolia, China
- Key Features: Hand-carved skull; rich purple sphalerite with resinous luster; natural vugs and polished finish
Product Description
Introduction
This remarkable skull is carved from Purple Sphalerite, a zinc sulfide mineral admired for its rich colors and striking luster. At 940 g, it offers substantial presence with a deep lavender-to-plum coloration and natural vugs that reveal its geological origins. Skulls of this size and mineral type are uncommon, making it a prized addition for collectors and energy workers alike.
Geological Details
Sphalerite (ZnS) is the primary ore of zinc and forms in the isometric crystal system. Found in hydrothermal veins, skarns, and carbonate-hosted deposits, sphalerite typically appears in brown, red, or yellow tones. Purple sphalerite, however, is much rarer and results from trace element chemistry during formation. With a density significantly higher than quartz or calcite, sphalerite has a distinctive heft, and when polished, it displays a resinous, almost wet-looking shine.
Carving-grade sphalerite suitable for skulls of this size is not widely available, with most material preserved in raw crystal clusters. This makes finished sculptures like this exceptional finds for collectors.
Aesthetic Appeal
The skull’s polished finish reveals a marbled interplay of violet, plum, and smoky grey tones. Natural vugs add authenticity and texture, while directional lighting enhances sphalerite’s resinous glow. The careful carving of the jaw, sockets, and crown balances artistry with the raw mineral character.
Metaphysical Properties
Purple sphalerite is associated with discernment, empowerment, and grounding. It is believed to help balance perception, distinguishing truth from illusion while anchoring higher awareness into practical reality. In skull form, this stone amplifies symbolic themes of wisdom, transformation, and spiritual awakening.
Rarity
Sphalerite is common in the mining industry, but purple carving-grade sphalerite is rare. Collector-quality carvings, especially skulls approaching 1 kg in weight, are not often seen in today’s market and carry strong long-term appeal.
Why You’ll Love It
Combining geological rarity, striking coloration, and symbolic artistry, this skull is more than just a carving — it’s a true conversation piece. Its size, energy, and polish ensure it will stand out in any mineral collection or metaphysical practice.
Specifications
- Exact Dimensions: 3.5 × 3 × 4.5 in
- Weight: 940 g (2.07 lb)
- Finish: Hand-carved and polished
- Unique Features: Rare purple sphalerite; resinous luster; natural vugs and textural inclusions
Collector’s Note
Purple sphalerite carvings are unusual, as most sphalerite is preserved in raw cluster form. Skull carvings of this size and polish represent an uncommon niche where mineralogy meets fine craftsmanship, offering strong collector appeal.
Display Recommendations
- Showcase under halogen or LED spot lighting to highlight resinous shine.
- Pair with clear quartz or fluorite specimens for complementary color contrast.
- Use a dark wooden or acrylic base to emphasize depth of color and luster.
