Quality Mineral Specimens for Sale Online | Mineral Dealers You Can Trust

Mineral preparation is a normal feature of collecting – trimming excess matrix, removing clay, stabilising a fragile crystal, or cleaning iron staining can reveal beauty that was already there. The trouble begins when a specimen is altered to create something that nature didn’t produce – and then sold as if it’s untouched. A classic red flag is the “too perfect” look: crystals that seem uniformly spaced, unexpected mineral associations, or an arrangement that looks deliberately composed rather than randomly grown. Another warning sign is unnatural symmetry – repeated angles, mirrored shapes, or a specimen that looks like it was “designed” to look "perfect". Look closely for evidence of intervention: tiny glue lines, glossy resin at contact points, mismatched patina where a crystal was moved, or fresh-looking material where an old surface should be oxidised or discoloured. On matrix specimens, watch for crystals that don’t match the matrix staining or that sit in suspiciously convenient positions. Photography can hide a lot, so if the specimen looks too good to be true, ask for extra images: side views, back shots, and close-ups of crystal attachment points. If a dealer avoids those angles, be cautious. It’s also fair to ask directly: Has anything been repaired, reattached, or repositioned? Reputable sellers will answer promptly and honestly. None of this means you should avoid repaired or stabilised specimens – many are completely legitimate and disclosed. The key is transparency and pricing. If a specimen has been "improved", it should be described as such, and the price should reflect what it is: a prepared or restored display piece, not an untouched natural marvel.