Cuprite from Namibia, Oshikoto Region, Tsumeb

Cuprite (Shown Backlit)

Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region, Namibia

3.1 x 3.0 x 1.7 cm

Cuprite, a simple copper oxide, was found in all three oxidation zones at Tsumeb. Most often found as modified cubes, octahedral or dodecahedral crystals measured in millimeters, and frequently in clusters. In the third oxidation zones, Cuprite was found with native silver, or silver amalgam, and Rosasite included calcite.

However, according to the best available documentation, the largest crystals of Cuprite from Tsumeb measured 3 cm. This specimen comes in at 3.1 x 3.0 and was grown against (not in) either another crystal or perhaps country rock. The naturally formed plate allows for the slightest amount of backlight to produce this ruby red glow. Unlit, it has a greyish silver metallic appearance . A beautiful specimen indeed!