Description
We don't think of Morocco for Smithsonite and yet it has produced some few pockets although little of note or color. That makes this cabinet piece all the more of a surprise! The color is a translucent blue somewhat reminiscent of the Kelly Mine, USA or Choix in Mexico, but the Rosasite is what makes it even more special. Copper minerals of quality other than Azurite, Malachite and Copper itself seem to be rarely seen in Morocco. I have never seen this combination from anywhere, but the Republic of Congo. Material that looks similar from the Kelly Mine in New Mexico is Smithsonite with Aurichalcite, not Rosasite. The Rosasite sticks out the top and is probably also what is coloring the Smithsonite from underneath. I have not seen such a large Smithsonite of this color from Touissit, let alone with Rosasite. In the early 1980s a group of Smithsonite pieces were found in blues and greens at this locality. I am told this is an old specimen, indeed. It's the only one of its kind I'm aware of as the others I have seen are more green in hue. Gorgeous and unusual!
Details
ColorsGrey
Origin
Bou Beker, Touissit-Bou Beker mining dist., Jerada Prov., Oriental Region, Morocco
SizeLarge Cabinet
Dimensions10.3 x 6.0 x 4.7 cm
Species
Rss
Smt
