Molybdofornacite (Tl), Dioptase and Wulfenite - image 1
Molybdofornacite (Tl), Dioptase and Wulfenite - image 2
Molybdofornacite (Tl), Dioptase and Wulfenite - image 3
Molybdofornacite (Tl), Dioptase and Wulfenite - image 4
Molybdofornacite (Tl), Dioptase and Wulfenite - image 5
Molybdofornacite (Tl), Dioptase and Wulfenite - image 6
Molybdofornacite (Tl), Dioptase and Wulfenite - image 7

Molybdofornacite (Tl), Dioptase and Wulfenite

Unknown Owner
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This is a rare combination piece from Tsumeb. Molybdofornacite, for which Tsumeb is the type locality, occurs as fine pistacchio--green crystals or aggregates on one end. The fact that is found with Wulfenite at Tsumeb is a characteristic and mineralogically important association. The Wulfenites in this piece are an attractive yellow-green and they have superb luster. They range up to about 4 mm, and some have gemmy little Dioptases adorning the faces. The major Dioptase crystals, of course, are deep green and highly lustrous, with the largest being about 7-8 mm. There is Calcite and Quartz throughout the pocket. While maybe not the most glamorous of Dioptase specimens, it is certainly an important and attractive pocket, with even a forest of super-gemmy 1 mm Dioptase crystals laying outside the main pocket. Really quite aesthetic in its own way, though to the serious Tsumeb collector I believe the rare rich concentration of molybdofornacite is the most appealing feature.

Product details

SizeSmall Cabinet
Dimensions9.5 x 8.0 x 5.5 cm
Added on10/23/2024

Known provenance

DateCollectorAcquisition price
08/2024Unknown OwnerNot disclosed
The ArkenstoneNot disclosed

Learn more

Dioptase
Mineral guide
Learn about Dioptase
vivid emerald-green crystals with glassy luster, often on white calcite or quartz; highly collectible due to color, clarity, and brittleness.
Dioptase
Regional guide
Dioptase from Tsumeb, Namibia
, Tsumeb (Namibia): deep emerald-green crystals with bluish cast, glassy luster, sharp terminations on calcite, a collector’s prized, iconic locality.