Sphalerite (gem crystals) with Quartz and Löllingite on Talc

Item Description

The elusive and fine quality Sphalerite crystals from Aït Ahmane, Morocco are some of the best gem examples of the species from any contemporary locality. Truly, this locality is best known for its cobalt minerals, and the Sphalerites are fairly rare. These pieces feature beautifully well-formed crystals with vibrant yellow hues, which are often close to transparent internally. This piece features a few sharp, well-formed crystals of Sphalerite which are virtually water-clear internally when backlit, showing a lemon yellow color. The Sphalerites are associated with prismatic crystals of Quartz and minor grey metallic Löllingite on white Talc. These Sphalerites are sometimes referred as "Cleophane", which is varietal of Sphalerite, typically colorless or green, but often gem quality. The entry on mindat.org states that yellow gemmy sphalerite is called "golden sphalerite." A very attractive piece of this seldom seen material.