TSU20-47
Chalcocite replacing Galena with Dolomite, Cerussite, Quartz
Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region, Namibia
Small Cabinet, 8.3 x 4.4 x 3.3 cm
Ex. Charlie Key
$950.00
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An intriguing Galena specimen from Tsumeb with a coating of Chalcocite and tiny Chalcocite crystals! Numerous octahedral Galena crystals to 1cm comprise an elongate cluster that displays a metallic gray-blue, locally iridescent color from a thin coating of Chalcocite. Upon close inspection under the microscope, many of the Galena crystals show incipient replacement by Chalcocite with minute vugs in the replaced Galena containing micro Chalcocite crystals and in places, miniscule, lustrous Cerussite crystals! Minute, clear Quartz crystals are found in little groups. White to gray-white, somewhat pearly lustered, classic, saddle-shaped crystals of Dolomite occur in simple, elegant clusters in a few areas for added contrast and interest! Galena is rare from Tsumeb and this is a crazy cool piece! Previously mislabeled as Galena, this turned out to be an excellent Chalcocite ps. Galena on closer inspection. Ex. Charlie Key collection with label (Charlie is legendary! We purchased his spectacular and broad lifelong personal collection around 2010 in partnership with Marshall Sussman).