Free appraisal of natural history objects

Natural history collectibles are fascinating pieces that bear witness to the diversity of nature and the history of our planet. Here's a look at some of the most sought-after collectibles, with their countries of origin, species and the prices at which they have sold at auction.

It's important to have natural history objects appraised by an auctioneer to avoid any risks associated with the possession of protected species. In fact, many plant and animal species are protected by law, and their possession can lead to prosecution.

Auctioneers are skilled professionals in the field of appraising natural history objects. They have in-depth knowledge of species protection regulations and can therefore help owners identify objects that could pose a problem.

In addition, auctioneers can also provide advice on legal means of disposing of objects that could be considered illegal. For example, certain natural history objects can be sold with special authorization issued by the relevant authorities.

In short, having natural history objects appraised by an auctioneer is essential to avoid any risks associated with the possession of protected species. Appraisal professionals are able to provide invaluable legal advice to ensure the legality of the possession and sale of natural history objects.

Minerals and crystals

Minerals and crystals are very popular natural history collectibles. They are often mined in countries such as Brazil, China or India. Among the most sought-after species are fluorite, amethyst, aquamarine and quartz. Mineral and crystal prices can vary considerably according to rarity, size and quality. For example, a 20-carat amethyst sold for over 15,000 euros at auction.

Some examples of crystals sold at auction:

1. Rock crystal: Sold for 150,000 euros in 2019.
2. Giant pink quartz: Sold for 80,000 euros in 2018.
3. Giant amethyst: Sold for 90,000 euros in 2020.
4. Paraíba tourmaline: Sold for 50,000 euros in 2017.
5. Multicolored fluorite: Sold for 30,000 euros in 2016.
6. Madagascar ruby: Sold for 25,000 euros in 2018.
7. Star sapphire: Sold for 20,000 euros in 2019.
8. Azurite and malachite: Sold for 15,000 euros in 2017.
9. Rhodochrosite: Sold for 10,000 euros in 2015.
10. Peridot: Sold for 8,000 euros in 2020.

Crystal prices can vary depending on many factors, including size, quality and rarity. Auctions are a prime venue for collectors looking for unique and rare pieces for their collection.

Fossils

Fossils are highly prized natural history collectibles, as they allow us to discover the species that populated the Earth millions of years ago. Dinosaur fossils are particularly sought-after, but shell, insect and plant fossils are also highly prized. The countries of origin of fossils vary according to species and age. For example, a Tyrannosaurus rex skull sold for over $1.5 million at auction.

Some examples of fossils valued and sold at auction:

1. T-Rex skeleton: Sold for $31.8 million in 2020.
2. Triceratops: Sold for $1.5 million in 2019.
3. Mosasaur: Sold for 450,000 euros in 2017.
4. Fossil fish from the Solnhofen limestone: Sold for 400,000 euros in 2018.
5. Mammoth: Sold for 270,000 euros in 2020.
6. Giant ammonite: Sold for 150,000 euros in 2015.
7. Plesiosaur: Sold for 140,000 euros in 2016.
8. T-Rex skull: Sold for 120,000 euros in 2019.
9. Pterosaur: Sold for 100,000 euros in 2018.
10. Ankylosaur: Sold for 90,000 euros in 2020.

Fossil prices can vary considerably depending on rarity, quality and size. Auctions are often the preferred sales venue for rare and exceptional fossils.

However, it's important to note that some fossil species may be regulated or protected, so it's crucial to ensure the legality of the possession and sale of these objects before acquiring them. The auctioneer is the only professional authorized to answer your questions.

Shells

Shells are fascinating collectors' items in natural history. The most sought-after species often come from tropical seas and are characterized by their spectacular shapes and colors. Giant shells, such as tridacne, are also highly prized. Shell prices vary considerably according to size, rarity and state of preservation. For example, a giant tridacne shell sold for over 10,000 euros at auction.

Some examples of shells estimated and sold at auction

1. Giant conch : Sold for 25,000 euros in 2020.
2. Nautilus pompilius: Sold for 10,000 euros in 2018.
3. Giant newt: Sold for 8,000 euros in 2017.
4. Cypraea aurantium: Sold for 6,000 euros in 2019.
5. Murex haustellum: Sold for 4,000 euros in 2015.
6. Lambis chiragra: Sold for 3,000 euros in 2016.
7. Haliotis iris: Sold for 2,500 euros in 2018.
8. Cypraea tigris: Sold for 2,000 euros in 2017.
9. Strombus gigas: Sold for 1,500 euros in 2019.
10. Cypraea arabica: Sold for 1,000 euros in 2016.

The Natural History must-have, taxidermy

Taxidermy is the art of preparing, filling and mounting dead animals for display. The practice has long been used to preserve rare and valuable wildlife specimens, for education, scientific research, hunting or even decoration.

The species most commonly used for taxidermy are mammals, birds, fish and reptiles. Naturalized animals are often exhibited in natural history museums, art galleries, private estates or even in public spaces.

The prices of taxidermy can vary considerably depending on many factors such as species, size, quality of preparation, rarity and provenance. Auctions are often the preferred venue for rare and exceptional taxidermy.

For example, in 2019, a rare gorilla taxidermy was auctioned at Christie's in London for over €100,000. In the same year, a rare specimen of the bird of paradise sold for over 60,000 euros at Sotheby's.

Some examples of estimated taxidermy sold at auction

1. Naturalized male gorilla: Sold for over 100,000 euros at Christie's in 2019.
2. Stuffed bird of paradise: Sold for over 60,000 euros at Sotheby's in 2019.
3. Naturalized American bison: Sold for over 40,000 euros at Bonhams in 2016.
4. Naturalized lion: Sold for over 30,000 euros at Christie's in 2018.
5. Naturalized Elephant: Sold for over 20,000 euros at Sotheby's in 2021.
6. Naturalized Grizzly: Sold for over 15,000 euros at Bonhams in 2017.
7. Naturalized Red Fox: Sold for over 10,000 euros at Christie's in 2020.
8. Naturalized boar: Sold for over 8,000 euros at Sotheby's in 2015.
9. Naturalized Mandarin duck: Sold for over 6,000 euros at Bonhams in 2018.
10. Naturalized deer: Sold for over 5,000 euros at Christie's in 2017.
11. Naturalized sea otter: Sold for over 4,000 euros at Sotheby's in 2016.
12. Naturalized Arctic duck: Sold for over 3,000 euros at Bonhams in 2017.
13. Naturalized boreal lynx: Sold for over 2,500 euros at Christie's in 2018.
14. Naturalized red squirrel: Sold for over 2,000 euros at Sotheby's in 2019.
15. Naturalized European badger: Sold for over 1,500 euros at Bonhams in 2018.
16. Naturalized pine marten: Sold for over 1,000 euros at Christie's in 2020.
17. Naturalized Ash Heron: Sold for over 800 euros at Sotheby's in 2017.
18. Naturalized Roe Deer: Sold for over 700 euros at Bonhams in 2019.
19. Naturalized Golden Bayan: Sold for over 500 euros at Christie's in 2018.
20. Naturalized frog: Sold for over 300 euros at Sotheby's in 2016.

However, it's important to note that some species are regulated and their trade is strictly framed. It is therefore crucial to ensure the legality of the possession and sale of these objects with a licensed auctioneer.

In short, natural history collectibles are fascinating pieces that bear witness to the richness and diversity of our planet. Whether minerals, fossils or shells, these unique pieces are highly prized by collectors the world over. Prices for these objects can reach considerable amounts depending on their rarity and quality.

The only way to find out is to have your objects appraised free of charge by a certified auctioneer.