Leiteite

$1,950.00

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T

The ArkenstoneFeatured

3,403 for sale·Member since 2026

Named in 1977 after well known gentleman mineral dealer Luis Antonio Bravo Teixeira-Leite, who first noted the material, Leiteite is a very rare zinc arsenate. Tsumeb is the TYPE LOCALITY, and the very first specimen was an aberrant one-off, so it was miraculous that it was even seen. This miniature features typically flattened, prismatic, monoclinic crystals whose relative proportions create the impression of flattened feathers. Semi-layered not unlike a mica, it has a fabulous, pearly white luster that makes it look akin to mirror-like, white mylar. Fortunately, Tsumeb is famous for its uncommon and deep third oxidation zone, where a germanium-rich pocket was discovered, thus unveiling a treasure trove of these beauties. Leiteite, beautiful and delicate, is a Holy Grail species for the famous and now-closed Tsumeb Mine, and this is a fantastic example of it. Dr. Erika Pohl-Ströher - 76378.