Bayldonite Ps. Mimetite - Tsumeb Mine, Namibia

No, this is not cuprite! - EarthWonders Newsletter #7

specimen
specimen
Bayldonite Ps. Mimetite
SpeciesSize
Comments
Details
ColorsGreen
SizeMiniature
Dimensions3.8 x 3.6 x 2.7 cm
Species
Description
A REMARKABLE, aesthetic and old-time Tsumeb pseudomorph featuring a splaying cluster of green bayldonite after very long, thin mimetite crystals. The pseudos reach about an inch. Classic, upper level material from Tsumeb's early years prior to WWI: These are thought to have been mined prior to the 1920s. Aesthetic examples are today very RARE AND HARD TO OBTAIN, but in any case are also attractive pseudos aside from the historical value! This is a competition-worthy miniature. Interestingly, I am told that many of these when analyzed turn out to be the much rarer species, ARSENTSUMEBITE, which would be a bonus. I have not tested this one, and most specimens carry the Bayldonite label as historically they have done, but due to the dark color here, I rate the chance highly this is, indeed, arsentsumebite.
Known provenanceKnowing where your specimen comes from and who owned it adds to its story and value. Good provenance helps prove it's authentic and preserves important details about its discovery.
Unknown owner
Purchase
Richardson, Texas, USA

Unknown previous owners

Earth

Origin