Detailed information
Species
Calcite, Mottramite
Dimensions
155 x 215 x 95
mm
Weight
2729 g
Locality
Tsumeb Mine Tsumeb, Oshikoto Region Namibia
Condition
No recorded repairs
We all know how diverse the secondary mineral assemblages are at Tsumeb mine, and how it is the world's most important locality for certain individual species, but Tsumeb being Tsumeb it always has to go one step further. So, Calcite. Well, Tsumeb has also furnished us with a wonderful range of Calcite crystal forms, some of which are bold and dramatic. This large cabinet piece is a stunning example and will make a magnificent addition to someones display cabinet. It is an older specimen, coming from the renowned generations-old Weyand collection in Tsumeb, and if there was any doubt to its provenance the green banded layers of Mottramite on its underside are evidence enough. On its display surface enormous (to over 6 cm across) lenticular crystals of pale cream coloured Calcite interlock in rosetted forms. Their surfaces reflect the light irregularly, caused by the multitude of small rhombs making up the larger crystals like Lego bricks. There is no doubt that this is a seriously impressive Tsumeb Calcite and, damage-wise for such a huge specimen, there are only one or two very slight scuffs, the rest is absolute perfection.