Smithsonite (Cuprian) - image 1
Smithsonite (Cuprian) - image 2
Smithsonite (Cuprian) - image 3

Smithsonite (Cuprian)

Unknown Owner
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This is an elongated plate with the most sparkly smithsonite I have seen from the find, literally as if you dropped sugar on top of the big botryoidal balls. Like many from this new find, this piece exhibits two-tone coloration of both apple-green and darker-green smithsonite. It is mounded very 3-dimensionally on the matrix with a thick layer of green (cuprian) smithsonite. The color is INTENSE in the darker zones, more what you expect for the finest wavellite and not for green smithsonite. I need to note that the piece was embedded in a rather large and rough matrix block, and so it was extracted by sawing rather than careful hand trimming: thus, the edges show in some places traces of the saw cut though they have been "roughed up" a little to try to hide that fact. Nevertheless, it displays well and again has fantastic, intense color. If it does not sell here as is, I will trim out the large miniature in the center and raise the price on the resulting piece, as its worth it..

Product details

SizeSmall Cabinet
Dimensions9.8 x 5.9 x 2.5 cm
Added on10/23/2024
LocalityUSA, Arizona, 79 Mine

Known provenance

DateCollectorAcquisition price
08/2024Unknown OwnerNot disclosed
The ArkenstoneNot disclosed

Learn more

Smithsonite
Mineral guide
Learn about Smithsonite
ZnCO3 with botryoidal and crystalline forms, silky to vitreous luster, pastel hues from cobalt to yellow; localities boost collecting appeal.
Smithsonite
Regional guide
Smithsonite from 79 Mine, Arizona, USA
from 79 Mine, Arizona — apple to green botryoidal and crusted specimens prized for color, texture, and oxidized-zone locality in Gila County.