Eitelite is an EXTREMELY rare carbonate mineral species, found in masses of grains or smears at a very few locales (see MINDAT: http://www.mindat.org/min-1360.html). Interestingly it was named after the scientist who first made it in the lab, rather than a natural crystal or example. Thus, natural, large eitelite specimens are unprecedented, even more than with most rare species, and this surprise new find released at the show was a big surprise for those who collect the rarities. These attractive specimens seem to be true crystals of eitelite, though grown in conjoined, lamellar masses. The top may be a contacted termination, where it grew against a constricting matrix of the pocket.

A rare locality specimen, of Spanish blue topaz. Although a nice blue color, these are so seldom seen on the market that few even know of them. I have only had a few good ones over the years. This has good luster and an interesting surface patterning which add to it.

We do not see a lot of copper, from the Tsumeb mine, all things considered. This particular specimen features an interlinked chain of elongated copper crystals growing attractively on contrasting matrix, where the copper has been replaced by cuprite. It is dramatic and very interesting, and I have not seen another specimen of this replacement from Tsumeb in such size and richness (only as small, isolated replacements). ex Marshall Sussman Tsumeb collection.