TSU20-65
Cerussite on Smithsonite
Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region, Namibia
Small Cabinet, 6.9 x 5.2 x 2.8 cm
$950.00
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A very sculptural Cerussite and Smithsonite combination specimen from Tsumeb, it looks like a cerussite anchor holding up a smithsonite stalactite. The foundation of the piece is a complex of two sets of Cerussite twins which, upon casual inspection, looks like one large reticulated twin; however, it's actually two sets of twins that have intimately grown close together. The individual crystals are all about 3cm in length and approximately 1.5cm in width. Each of the pale gray, transparent, chisel-point crystals exhibits a series of internal phantoms for added effect! For a backdrop, a long sliver of charcoal gray (sulfide?) matrix provides the substrate for the growth of innumerable, 1 to 2cm sharp, pointed Smithsonite crystals. These Smithsonites provide dense coverage on the matrix, and although nearly colorless themselves, pick up the color of the dark matrix. A few small (3-4mm) Cerussite twins embellish the Smithsonites. Some incomplete Cerussite crystals on the backside as well. Minor bruising to one of the Cerussites is largely out of sight and local contacting on the back - so this 3-dimensional and seemingly fragile piece is very near to pristine. Crystal Cellar label from the 1990s.