Smithsonite

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This fine large miniature sculptural stalactitic Smithsonite is from San Benedetto mine near Iglesias in Sardinia, Italy - a quite long-lived zinc mine owned for much of its life (1872-1941) by Vieille-Montagne. Extensive oxidation of the ore minerals was noted, but Smithsonite specimens are rarely seen in collections outside of Italy. This lovely example from San Benedetto mine is in great condition and comes with an old Italian handwritten label. The stalactites are like fingers and display the most wonderful wet silky lustre imaginable for Smithsonite. Their colour is a pale grey to cream with orange and beige internal layering displayed in cross-section on the sides, showing how the stalactites have formed. There is minor damage to the tip of one or two of the stalactites, but this really is a gorgeous European Smithsonite, from a rarely seen but important zinc producer.