T14B-36
Molybdofornacite (Tl), Dioptase and Wulfenite
Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia
Cabinet, 9.5 x 8.0 x 5.5 cm
SOLD
This is a rare combination piece from Tsumeb. Molybdofornacite, for which Tsumeb is the type locality, occurs as fine pistacchio--green crystals or aggregates on one end. The fact that is found with Wulfenite at Tsumeb is a characteristic and mineralogically important association. The Wulfenites in this piece are an attractive yellow-green and they have superb luster. They range up to about 4 mm, and some have gemmy little Dioptases adorning the faces. The major Dioptase crystals, of course, are deep green and highly lustrous, with the largest being about 7-8 mm. There is Calcite and Quartz throughout the pocket. While maybe not the most glamorous of Dioptase specimens, it is certainly an important and attractive pocket, with even a forest of super-gemmy 1 mm Dioptase crystals laying outside the main pocket. Really quite aesthetic in its own way, though to the serious Tsumeb collector I believe the rare rich concentration of molybdofornacite is the most appealing feature.