Manganoan Smithsonite

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Manganoan smithsonite is distinct from the more common cobaltian varietal for the unique color of maroon, combined with a sharp crystal habit and characteristic luster. This pocket was found only once, in about 1985 (according to Charlie Key), and specimens are of the utmost rarity. This is one of the most elegant examples of the pocket I have seen, with thick clusters of SHARP 1 cm crystals perched atop a vertically oriented matrix. Minor sulfides (pyrite) are in association on back - characteristic of this pocket. This is, for a small cabinet size specimen, one of the finest examples I have seen because it is not a flat plate with total coverage, but has such nice aesthetics and shows off these sharp crystals better, thus. Ex Sussman Collection, sold from his first collection to me in Chicago in the early 2000s.