Smithsonite var. Cuprian and Cadmian

Item Description

Smithsonite is one of the more sought-after species from Tsumeb, due in large part to its enchanting colors and the high luster often associated with its complex variety of habits. Interestingly, this attractive small cab consists not of botryoids (rounded growths), but rather of sharp and millimeter-size, colorful and variegated yellow-green, greenish, and brown-orange crystals that completely cover the knobs on the presentation side of this piece. We believe the colors are due to an unusual mix of elements and you are seeing both cuprian (green and green-yellow) and cadmian-rich (yellow to burnt umber) colors in the same specimen, showing a transition as it formed! The varying, intermixed colors and high luster are quite appealing and add sparkle to this very attractive piece! It is complete all around with only minor contacting in only a few minor recessed areas at the the periphery that are pretty much out of sight. Showy and colorful, it is also a talking piece, when you think about the chemical complexity here.