Cuprian Smithsonite and Aurichalcite

Unknown Owner

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Green cuprian Smithsonite is among the most desired colors. Crystals seldom occur at any location except for Tsumeb. Unusual for the location, the color AND the crystal habit, this fine small cabinet piece features large, "rice-grain" crystals of Cuprian Smithsonite instead of the usual botryoidal material from this prominent Arizona locality. It is a nearly unique specimen from a very small production. Most of us are familiar with the pockets of this material collected in the early 90's, where the Smithsonite was botryoidal; and nothing like this was found again. It has an old label from the Lesnicks, circa 1960s or 1970s, but I cannot say when it might have been mined. Satiny lustered, Cuprian Smithsonite crystals to nearly 1cm are distinct and cover the surface of this elegant piece. I would have thought it were Tsumeb, despite the label, except for the fact that there is a linear patch of bright blue Aurichalcite sandwiched between the dark brown gossany matrix and the Smithsonite - a bonus for excellent contrast, and a proof of locality. This style represents an EXTREMELY RARE and desirable Arizona Smithsonite! No damage and only minor contacting around the periphery. Accompanied by a Lesnicks label.