Smithsonite (2237)

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Very attractive specimen from an unusual and seldom seen locality. Thick bluish green semi lustrous botryoidal crystallized smithsonite covering the front side of matrix. This is in great condition. The specimen comes with a serious of previous labels, also a copy of an analysis confirming the identity. These are shown at the end of the video.The Aladag Mine in Kayseri, Turkey, is part of a region known for carbonate hosted zinc deposits that have been worked for base metal production. Mining in the area has focused on extracting zinc and lead from mineralized zones within limestone, where hydrothermal processes introduced metal rich fluids into the host rock. In addition to its economic importance, the mine is well known among collectors for producing attractive smithsonite specimens. The smithsonite from Aladag commonly occurs as botryoidal masses and crusts with a distinctive bluish green color, often displaying a smooth surface and soft luster. These specimens formed in the oxidized zones of the deposit through the alteration of primary zinc minerals.This specimen was on public display at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, 2026.