Lot # 69 - Peacock Ore ( Bornite)

Opening Bid : $ 5.00
Start Date/Time: 02-Mar-2026 7:00:00 AM
End Date/Time: 09-Mar-2026 8:10:00 PM
Current bid:

$8.00

Highest bidder:

Wisewillow

Auction has ended

Description :

What Bornite Is

Bornite is a copper iron sulfide mineral and an important copper ore. Freshly broken material is usually a dark, bronzy brown, but it quickly tarnishes into those brilliant metallic colors.

Why It Looks So Colorful

The rainbow effect comes from thin‑film oxidation on the surface. As the mineral reacts with oxygen, microscopic layers form that reflect light in different wavelengths, producing:

  • Purples

  • Blues

  • Golds

  • Sometimes greens and pinks

This tarnish is natural and part of its charm.

Key Traits

  • Metallic luster

  • Iridescent tarnish (its signature look)

  • Relatively soft for a metallic mineral (Mohs ~3)

  • Often massive or chunky rather than well‑formed crystals

Where It’s Found

Bornite occurs in many copper‑rich deposits around the world, including:

  • Arizona and Montana (USA)

  • Mexico

  • Peru

  • Namibia

  • Australia

Why People Collect It

  • The colors are eye‑catching and unique

  • It’s a great teaching specimen for sulfide minerals

  • It’s historically important as a copper ore

  • Each piece develops its own pattern of iridescence over time

Disclaimer: All gemstone and mineral descriptions are provided to the best of our ability based on visual assessment and available information. None of the stones in this auction have been GIA‑certified or professionally graded. The winning bidder is welcome to have any stone independently certified, graded, or appraised at their own expense. All items are sold as‑is.

Dimensions : 3 in W x 3.5 in H

Auction History

Highest bidder is Wisewillow

Date Bid User
09-Mar-2026 8:06:11 PM $8.00 Wisewillow
09-Mar-2026 8:06:11 PM $7.00 GSSpence
09-Mar-2026 11:54:27 AM $5.00 Wisewillow

PAYMENT DETAILS

Placing a bid is an agreement to purchase. If you win, you must pick up your item(s). If you default on your purchase, your bidding privileges will be revoked permanently. Do not bid if you do not plan to purchase.If you bid, you MUST be available/arrange for pick-up of purchases on the pick-up date unless you have made prior shipping arrangements. Bring necessary tools and help for picking up large items. Loading assistance is NOT available. Some items may be located on a 2nd floor, out building.

Invoices are emailed to winning bidders once the sale has completely closed.Full payment must be made by 8:00 p.m. the day after auction closes. If total payment is not received before the pick-up date & time, items will be forfeited, and bidding privileges revoked.

Pick-up information will be on the invoice e-mailed after the auction closes.All items not picked up during the designated times will be considered abandoned and may be donated or resold. When possible, and at our sole discretion, an alternate pick-up time may be arranged. If this is possible, an appropriate fee will be charged. 

A 10% Buyer's Premium and Sales Tax are added to the winning bid amount when invoiced. Sales tax is waived for licensed re-sellers.

We make every effort to describe lot items as accurately as possible. Expect normal signs of wear associated with antiques, vintage, and used items. We do not list every flaw. All items are sold AS IS WHERE IS. No refunds or returns. Sound Estate Company does not guarantee the working order of any clock, watch, electronic or mechanical device. Dimensions given may be approximate.

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