Catawba Valley Gem & Mineral Club

For all the rock enthusiasts out there who have an affinity for larger pieces, there is an upcoming event you won't want to miss! Linda Hoke from Hound Dog Auction and Realty is hosting a Moving Estate Tag Sale on behalf of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Eisenhower of Conover. The sale is scheduled for August 17, 18, and 19, from 9 AM to 2 PM each day.
In addition to numerous other household items, there are four standout geological pieces that will be sold on-site. These include:
1. A polished boulder of North Carolina Black Jade (Not Nephrite Jade).
2. A large polished slab of petrified wood.
3. A large polished slab of granite.
4. A large natural granite boulder.
These magnificent pieces have been pictured and described below, to the best of my ability.
The Black Jade was discovered near the Carolina Coach & Camper location at I-40 Exit 135, Claremont, NC 28610, during the construction of that part of the interstate. Paul Eisenhower and Richard Sipe (1927 – 2018) managed to transport it to Atlanta where it was polished on all sides, except the back, which was left in its natural state. The stone measures approximately 2' x 3' x 2' high, but the weight is unknown. To move it, a wrecker service would be required. In the past, I've utilized the services of Skeet's Auto Body Repair & Wrecker Service, 906 Conover Blvd W, Conover, NC.
There is also a remarkable piece of petrified wood, skillfully polished and transformed into a potential tabletop or bench. This sizable piece measures approximately 5 feet in length, stands over 3 feet high, and is about 5 inches thick. The top surface has been buffed to a mirror-like finish, emphasizing the natural beauty and unique patterns of the wood.
This unique piece was discovered in western North Carolina during an I-40 construction cut, at the same location where Richard Sipes found his large petrified log. That log was donated to the Catawba Science Center in Hickory, NC, where it continues to be displayed.
Following its discovery, this slab of petrified wood was transported to Atlanta. There, it was carefully sawed into its current form and polished on one side, while the remaining sides and the bottom were left in their natural state.
While the piece could benefit from a gentle cleaning to further enhance its appearance, it stands as a stunning representation of nature's artwork. Any rock enthusiast would be thrilled to have such a magnificent piece of petrified wood gracing their home.
Also available is a large granite slab, similar in size to the aforementioned petrified wood piece. The slab is approximately 5 inches thick, 3 feet wide, and at least 5 feet long. Currently positioned halfway up the driveway, this slab serves as a bench, adding an element of natural beauty to the outdoor setting.
The bench is supported by granite blocks, like small tomb stones, that measure about 4 inches in thickness, 12 to 14 inches in width, and 18 to 24 inches in height. These granite supports have been partially buried and carefully leveled to ensure a stable base for the granite slab. This assembly creates an enduring and attractive outdoor seating area.
Positioned at the end of the driveway, another significant piece awaits. This is a substantial, natural granite stone, untouched and in its raw state. With dimensions approximately at 3 feet in length, width, and height, this stone carries a unique rustic charm. For those who appreciate the beauty of natural elements in their outdoor spaces or gardens, this piece would serve as a captivating focal point.
The value of these unique pieces is indeed hard to ascertain. Considering the potential expense of moving and relocating, the North Carolina Black Jade could feasibly range between $300 and $600, depending on the level of interest and logistical costs.
As a resident of a townhome community, I unfortunately can't capitalize on this opportunity myself.
For those unfamiliar with the estate sale process, it operates on a "first come, first serve" or "grab and growl" basis. Generally, items are priced at their full value on the first day, with prices being progressively reduced on the second and third day—often by up to 50% on the final day.
However, I would not anticipate these unique pieces to remain unsold till the third day. Therefore, if any or all of these items pique your interest, I urge you to attend. Everything will be pre-priced, primed for a true "grab and growl" experience!
The photos may be viewed at this site: https://tomwinslow.smugmug.com/Rocks/Hound-dog-auction
Mark your calendars for this event; it's a perfect opportunity for rock collectors to add to their collection.
You may recall that Paul Eisenhower, the late proprietor of Paul's Fleet Service in Conover, had his business' contents auctioned off some years ago. Currently, a large factory stands in its place.
Don't forget to add this event to your calendars, especially if you're a rock collector. This is a unique opportunity to add some exceptional pieces to your collection.

Estate Sale by Linda Hoke from Hound Dog Auction and Realty - Tom Winslow Shown here are four wonderful pieces that are being offered for sale in August by Linda Hoke with hound dog auction sales and Realty.

A chunk of quartz found in Arkansas worth $4 million.