Rare collection of Blue John to go under the hammer in Derbyshire

The form of flourite known as Blue John, found only in two mines, Treak Cliff and Blue John Mine in the hills of North Derbyshire, has been sought after for hundreds of years.

This colourful stone was at its most popular during the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries, being shaped into a wide variety of forms including jewellery, bowls, eggs,paperweights and chalices.

Whilst being mined around the Castleton area collections can be found in Windsor Castle, the Vatican and The Whitehouse. Blue John continues to be worked to this day, although only small pieces are now available as almost all the deposits have been depleted,making the older, larger pieces extremely desirable.

Collectors of this mineral are to be found worldwide and are keen to acquire examples of the stone extracted from the mines' various veins and seams as they differ in colour and the pattern of the striations. As the collection to be offered by Hansons is representative of this variety of types it is expected to generate interest from near and far. A total of fifteen lots will include a lidded jar, an early goblet and ten bowls showing clearly the range of hues and patterns present in Blue John, together with a selection of eggs and a paper knife with mother­or­pearl blade.

Charles Hanson, Director of Hansons Auctioneers comments: 'It is exciting to be able to offer such an extensive array in one sale and gives the collector the opportunity to acquire that special piece they've been looking for'.

Hansons Spring Fine Arts Sale begins today (March 31), the Blue John to be sold on Friday April 1. For more information please contact the saleroom on 01283733988 or email [email protected].