Cuprian Smithsonite stalactite - image 1

Cuprian Smithsonite stalactite

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Smithsonite, an always desirable and oft-collected colorful zinc carbonate, is one Tsumeb's signature species. Most often formed in slightly-curved rhombs, and stalactite growths such as this were found only a few times in over 100 years of Tsumeb production. Here the crystals are modified and densely clustered around a central core, creating dozens, if not hundreds, of sharp faces. These give the Smithsonite a super-high luster, which in turn creates a fantastic shimmer that accents the cuprian, mint-green color. The whole piece is translucent as well! The growths actually cover an underlying Smithsonite stalactite, and these surprisingly gemmy crystals present very well when the stalactite is mounted vertically. This is a very aesthetic, small miniature from a great locality. Unique specimen in this size and quality! From the well-known Tsumeb-specific thumbnail collection of Dick and Mary Nelson, built mostly from 1980-2010. Laszlo Kupi photo.