Rosasite ps. Malachite ps. Azurite

$35,000.00

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633 sold last year · median $800.00 · last sale $9,000.00

The ArkenstoneFeatured

3,410 for sale·797 sold

This is a rare DOUBLE REPLACEMENT the likes of which is only found at Tsumeb; and of a huge size for such sharp quality and condition. There are two main, chisel-like crystals: one exceedingly large at 9 cm tall, and a smaller, crossways crystal at the base being about 5 cm. These crystals were originally Azurite crystals, and were later altered to Malachite, a common, well-known alteration in the mineral world. Then, as the pocket chemistry changed, these pseudomorphed once again into these magnificent, velvety, blue-green Rosasite coatings you see on top of the malachite (and intermixed). Interestingly, the surfaces have a distinct, subtle, almost terraced topography to them. I strongly suspect that these forms are a result of the pseudomorphing, and were not part of the original Azurite's habit. An excellent and dramatic, old-time Tsumeb pseudomorph, this bold and large specimen was featured in the Liebetraus' 2012 Desautels Award-winning case (Best in Tucson Show Competition). This was, in fact, a major specimen in the case. Large, complete-all-around Tsumeb pieces of this caliber are very very scarce. It likely dates to the earlier zones, where Rosasite was more common as a replacement (1950s or prior). Comes with a custom clutch mount base for display.