Cobaltoan Calcite

Unknown Owner

Well, we all know that Tsumeb mine has produced the world's best specimens of the rare pink cobalt-rich variety of Smithsonite, but have you ever seen a Cobaltoan Calcite like this from Tsumeb? No, I hadn't either, and initially I was convinced that this must be Smithsonite, but its density, or lack of, is the key. Take a closer look. This is a mineralogical wonder, combining exceptional colour, size, superb crystal form and all wrapped around being from arguably the world's most loved mineral deposit - Tsumeb. This magnificent beauty lay within the generations-old Weyand Collection which remained until recently in the town of Tsumeb. Upon it, Cobaltoan Calcite forms an almost pure aggregate of sharp, bladed, shallow-angled rhombic crystals, some reaching over 2 cm on edge and all with a sumptuous bright pink colour and fine translucency. Underneath, small patches of intense vivid pink Cobaltoan Dolomite can be seen. Without doubt the greatest Cobaltoan Calcite I have ever seen from Tsumeb mine.