Cuprian Smithsonite, Aurichalcite, and Calcite - image 1

Cuprian Smithsonite, Aurichalcite, and Calcite - image 2

Cuprian Smithsonite, Aurichalcite, and Calcite

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With copper as the chromophore, this botryoidal Smithsonite has as rich a forest-green coloration as you are likely to find for the species from any location - comparable to the best of Tsumeb or Arizona but maybe even more sparkling and glassy! The dramatic and 3-dimensional growth atop is just over an inch (just under 3 cm) across, and perched on more. The gossan matrix is covered by more Smithsonite, in rounded growths averaging about 5 mm. Highly lustrous and surprisingly GEMMY, the Smithsonite simply glows when backlit. Associated with white Calcite and powder-blue Aurichalcite, the combination creates interesting and aesthetic complements and contrasts. This outstanding, high-quality miniature was collected in 2020 and is probably among the best of this important pocket of Cuprian Smithsonite, in any size - and certainly a more saturated and amazing green color than other previous finds here which we are familiar with.