A specimen of goethite from the historic Cavo Mine, on the eastern side of the Island of Elba — one of Italy's most celebrated mineralogical localities, renowned since antiquity for its iron mineralizations.

The mineral's surface displays an intense sub-metallic luster, with a striking iridescence shifting from steel-blue to petroleum-green — an optical effect caused by an extremely thin surface oxidation film, a naturally occurring phenomenon of rare beauty known as goethite iridescence.

The specimen features a characteristic botryoidal morphology, with tightly packed globules creating an organic texture of great aesthetic impact. The fracture surfaces reveal a dense, almost glassy matrix of deep rust-black color.

Collector's notes

• The iridescence is a natural and permanent phenomenon, not an artificial treatment
• Each specimen is unique — the photos show the exact piece for sale
• Certified historical provenance: Cavo Mine, now a decommissioned and protected site
• Ideal for collections of Italian minerals or oxides and hydroxides
• Store away from impacts; the botryoidal morphology may be fragile at the surface

The Cavo Mine is located near Rio nell'Elba, an area historically exploited since the Etruscan and Roman periods for Elban iron. Iridescent goethites from this locality are sought after by collectors worldwide for their unusual combination of aesthetic quality and geological history.

Safe shipping with cushioned packaging · Certified provenance — 100% natural specimen · A perfect gift for mineralogy and natural science enthusiasts