Aragonite var. Tarnowitzite

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Tarnowitzite is a lead-rich, or plumbian variety of Aragonite discernible from pure Aragonite by its distinctive crystal form - rounded or sloping terminations as opposed to flat pinacoid faces. The world-famous Tsumeb mine in Namibia is one of the best sources of beautiful Tarnowitzite specimens and this large miniature specimen shows why. Despite this species, or variety, being white to cream in colour it is its crystal form which makes it so beautiful. Dominated by a 6.5 cm long spray of slightly diverging crystals, this specimen is elevated in quality by a second crystal, or crystal spray, branching off like a stand, or support, although in reality it still needs additional support. This second spray gives this piece a far more dramatic appearance. The main crystal spray presents extremely well, with the diverging crystals extending in length in the centre, with those around the edges much shorter.