Ludlockite with Schneiderhöhnite

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Ludlockite is an extremely rare lead iron arsenate which was described from Tsumeb mine - the Type Locality - in 1970, occurring as felt-like burnt-orange coloured aggregates of acicular to hair-like crystals and divergent radiating sprays. It was reportedly encountered in the 30th level in 1968 in what was one of the deepest oxidation zones. A few years later Schneiderhöhnite, a glossy black iron arsenate, was also described from Tsumeb mine. Ludlockite specimens from Tsumeb mine are one of the 'must have' rare species from this legendary mine, but most specimens seen available are small (less than 1.5 cm long) detached bunched, or divergent crystal sprays, with larger matrix-hosted crystal sprays much rarer, and consequently much more expensive. This remarkable specimen is not so much a matrix piece - although is does have a very small piece attached - but is a phenomenally large (miniature in size) and stunningly intact crystallized aggregate of Ludlockite. Not only that, but sitting within the 'nest' of Ludlockite fibres are many glossy black Schneiderhöhnite crystals, the largest of which reaches 4 mm across. The combination of Ludlockite and Schneiderhöhnite at Tsumeb mine is rarely seen in preserved specimens, making this a scientifically important piece too. This specimen comes with a custom-made acryllic Sunnywood display stand.