TSU20-49
Smithsonite var. Cuprian Smithsonite on Cerussite with Duftite
Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region, Namibia
Small Cabinet, 6.0 x 3.7 x 2.1 cm
Ex. Charlie Key
SOLD

Shimmering, blocky Cerussite crystals and twins dominate this attractive piece that is highlighted with bright, vivid green-blue Smithsonite crystals of the rarest color! The Cerussites are fairly well-formed, translucent to transparent with some faces lustrous while others have a pleasing microcrystalline druse of sparkling Cerussite. The Smithsonite crystals on this piece are killer with respect to color and textural contrast they add! The crystals are vibrant blue-green and almost rice grain-like but larger and distinctly gemmy, ranging in size from 1.5 to 3mm and dominate the central portion of this small cabinet specimen. The "rice grain" shaped smithsonite crystals are of an electrifying color not common for Tsumeb! Minute, bright, gemmy, pistachio green patches of Duftite are draping the crevasses, and often associated with tiny, vibrant, blue-green Smithsonite crystals of a smaller size from the big ones. This is from one single very rare pocket, that Charlie told Rob was found in the mid 1980s. Seldom seen.