Lot 4001* - A211 Out of This World - mardi, 03. décembre 2024, 17h00
LIBYAN DESERT GLASS
Circa 29 million years
Libyan Desert
Glass (silica)
8 × 5.8 × 3.1 cm (measurements not including stand)
Libyan Desert
Glass (silica)
8 × 5.8 × 3.1 cm (measurements not including stand)
In 1922, British archaeologist Howard Carter discovered the untouched tomb of Tutankhamen, a pharaoh who ruled over Egypt almost 3,300 years ago. When Carter entered the tomb for the very first time and was asked if he could see anything, he famously responded: ‘Yes, wonderful things!’. In a treasure chest, Carter discovered a large breastplate decorated with gold, silver and a strange, beautiful gemstone, carved as a scarab. Today we know it as Libyan desert glass.
Studies show that Libyan desert glass formed about 29 million years ago after an asteroid or a meteorite hit probably a sandstone area on ancient earth. The airburst from this event must have deposited a staggering 100 megatons of energy into the sky. The heat and pressure following this moment helped to form this magical material. The glass is nearly pure silica, which requires temperatures above 1,600 degrees Celsius to form, more than for any rock on earth.
The example presented here is of the highest quality, showing a unique light yellow color with no inclusions.
Studies show that Libyan desert glass formed about 29 million years ago after an asteroid or a meteorite hit probably a sandstone area on ancient earth. The airburst from this event must have deposited a staggering 100 megatons of energy into the sky. The heat and pressure following this moment helped to form this magical material. The glass is nearly pure silica, which requires temperatures above 1,600 degrees Celsius to form, more than for any rock on earth.
The example presented here is of the highest quality, showing a unique light yellow color with no inclusions.
CHF 1 000 / 1 500 | (€ 1 030 / 1 550)