Connoisseurs, Scientists, and the Mineral Kingdom

Abstract

Abstract Minerals, naturally formed inorganic chemical elements and compounds, are created by diverse geological processes and, under favorable conditions, form exquisite crystals and striking assemblages within the rocks of the Earth. These are collectors’ pieces. Traditionally, mineral specimens are products or by-products of mining and quarrying industries, so supply is governed as much by economic climate, consumer demand, and political factors as by the intrinsic rarity or otherwise of a particular mineral species. A market exists for aesthetically fine and rare “natural” mineral specimens, both newly extracted from the earth and passed on second hand, perhaps from previous collections of note. It is largely the preserve of enthusiasts and more recently investors and, like that of the art world, the market is international in scope, featuring specialist dealers, connoisseur collectors, large sums of money, auctions, museum exhibitions, and forgeries. This chapter looks at the interfaces between scientists, mineral collectors, and curators.