Willemite

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Willemite is one of the more sought-after species from Tsumeb, due in large part to its enchanting range of colors and its high luster. This is from one of the important, but small, finds in the 70s, and the piece features highly-lustrous, beautiful, blue translucent botryoids that almost seem gem quality. The botryoids reach up to 1 cm across, and even under regular light you can see and 'feel' the gemminess of the Willemite pulling you inwards. Sometimes, to dramatic effect, you find that a portion of the Willemite grades to a rust-red tint due to small traces of manganese. The reflective white spots are slight growths of Cerussite atop. This sparkling gemminess, it's a signature characteristic, and quite appealing. One of the rarest finds of Tsumeb, the gem blue Willemite that you see in this superb thumbnail is seldom available. Dr. Erika Pohl-Ströher - PTN25.