Smithsonite var. Cuprian: Tsumeb mine, Tsumeb, Namibia

Description

Species: Smithsonite var. Cuprian, Dolomite

Locality: Tsumeb mine, Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region, Namibia

Dimensions: 10.5 x 5 x 4.7 cm.

SOLD

Smithsonite from the iconic Tsumeb mine occurs in nearly every color under the rainbow, but one of the rarest and most prized colors are these distinctive blue-green cuprian crystals which occur on contrasting white dolomite matrix. The color is not quite green and not quite blue, but a beautifully-unique “seafoam” shade which is so distinctive of this find. The lustrous, gemmy, well-formed rhombohedral smithsonite crystals on this specimen are up to ~6 mm. and richly cover the contrasting white dolomite matrix. A superb example of a rare Tsumeb smithsonite variety, in fine condition and with great display aesthetics on its custom acrylic base. Ex. Shields & Frances Flynn collection and the Alex Neufeld collection. Annette Slade photo.