Smithsonite (Cadmian) ps. Dolomite

$3,000.00

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This is a superb, old-time specimen of rich, yellow cadmian smithsonite pseudomorphine distinctive, saddle-shaped dolomite crystals from the historic Philadelphia Mine at Rush, Arkansas. The color is due to cadmium content, which is unusual from any locality for this species. This underground zinc mine was operated in the late 1800s and early 1900s then only sporadically through the mid-1900s. Dozens of large, curved, saddle-shaped crystals of cadmian smithsonite pseudomorphing dolomite to over 1 cm cover this excellent cabinet specimen and the crystals are nicely isolated! The bright yellow cadmian smithsonite, a zinc carbonate (here containing a small amount of cadmium), is replacing dolomite a calcium-magnesium carbonate. These pseudomorphs from here are some of the best from anywhere and is one of the most rare of U.S. smithsonites, and this piece is both big and beautiful! The majority of the display surface is in excellent condition with only minor damage on the bottom edge. This is a significant piece of this uncommon pseudomorph! Collected by Dr. Jim Cole in 1973 and bought from him on 6/8/2002. Specimens of this quality are few and far between.