Native Silver

Opened as a copper mine in 1856 in sparsely populated Ontonagon County on Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Mass Mine produced a number of gorgeous silver and copper specimens during its heyday in the second half of the 19^th century. However, silver specimens from Michigan came out in far lower quantities than copper, and have therefore always been prized possessions. This intricate piece of crystallized silver contains areas of oxidized copper throughout and is reminiscent of a mature oak tree blanketed with moss. Although silver itself is uncommon enough as a precious metal, finding a sculptural specimen of this size and beauty is rare indeed.