Malachite after Cerussite (ex John Passaneau Collection)

Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia
Miniature, 4.6 x 3.6 x 2.3 cm
Start Time: 05/04/2017 6:30:00 pm (CDT)
End Time: 05/16/2017 6:30:00 pm (CDT)
Auction Closed

Item Description

Tsumeb is filled with multi-generational specimens where something is desposited over a preexisting mineral, or something pseudomorphs after another and then is replaced by something else. It's part of what makes this locality so fun and fascinating for collectors. I'm not sure if I should call this piece is a pseudomorph, a replacement or a simply a coating. The label simply says "Malachite after Cerussite", which is the safest way to identify it. Even under the microscope it was hard to for me to tell exactly what took place. What we do know is a generation of reticulated, silvery, sharp, lustrous crystals of Cerussite formed and a second generation of bluish-green Malachaite was deposited later on. The top most crystal on the specimen measures 2.0 cm across shows an excellent "snowflake"-esque habit when viewed from above. Overall the piece is in great shape and really looks nice up close. Showy and colorful, a great display miniature of this classic and eye-catching material from Tsumeb. Formerly in the collection of John Passaneau of State College, Pennsylvania.

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