Detailed information
Species
Galena, Smithsonite
Dimensions
50 x 95 x 36
mm
Locality
Tsumeb Mine Otjikoto Region Namibia
Condition
No recorded repairs
Dark greenish tan to blackish, lenticular Smithsonite crystals developed up to 7 mm, richly encrust a 9.5 cm long matrix of Galena. The colouration of the Smithsonite is rather unusual for Tsumeb and is probably due to sulphide mineral inclusions. The colour combinations may not read as particularly attractive, being a mixture of dark colours with minimal contrast, yet just take a look at the accompanying photos and it unexpectedly draws your attention. Contrast is provided by the many highly reflective curved surfaces of Smithsonite crystals which appear bright metallic silver. It’s a great cabinet size specimen from the ex-Minette Collection and definitely something that bit different within the standard suite of Tsumeb material.