Preliminary identification

Polished Carnelian or Agate Mineral Sphere

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A hand-polished geological specimen crafted from microcrystalline quartz, showcasing a warm palette of amber, honey, and burnt orange.

Story

Silica-rich fluids settled into the hollow cavities of volcanic rock millions of years ago, slowly hardening into the solid mass you see here. This specific stone was likely harvested from a riverbed or a deep quarry before being brought to a lapidary workshop to be transformed.

Maker / Origin

While the individual lapidary artist is unknown, this piece represents the global tradition of stone-cutting found in mineral-rich regions like the Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil.

Condition & Value

The sphere shows several significant surface chips and a prominent vertical fracture line, likely from a drop or rough handling. These 'bruises' are common in softer or more brittle stones but do reduce the value by approximately 40-50% compared to a museum-grade specimen.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD