Cuprian Smithsonite (unusual sharp crystals)

Item Description

Green smithsonite in actual sharp crystals is perhaps the rarest and certainly among the most desired of all Tsumeb smithsonite colors. Crystallized green smithsonite does not occur elsewhere - it is, rather, rounded and ball shaped when it occurs in other locations. Large, lustrous and translucent to almost transparent, slightly overgrown, bright mint-green Cuprian Smithsonite rhombs cover much of the display face of this showy and rather large cabinet sized piece from the Tsumeb Mine. This is from a single special pocket, immediately recognizable and seldom seen for sale, from the 1970s. This piece has exceptionally large crystals up to 2.0 cm that display a bright, luster and the diamond-shaped faces are ever so slightly curved. The edges of the Cuprian Smithsonite crystals are razor-sharp and the crystals are well-formed with just slightly darker mint-green cores and slightly lighter mint-green rims...very captivating. The crystals are slightly intergrown, but are still distinct with the crystal faces displaying a bright luster, and the edges have a silky sheen for a contrasting play of light. An exceptional display piece of Cuprian Smithsonite from Tsumeb! Valued $10,000-plus.