superb Smithsonite on Coronadite stalactite

Item Description

A significant smithsonite specimen for this most important of all Aussie localities: a perfect and large, nearly 9 cm stalactite of Coronadite populated by hundreds of rice-grain Smithsonite crystals from the well-known Broken Hill Mine in Australia. The crystals are an attractive light grey (classic for the locality), translucent, and they have a very good luster. Habits for the Smithsonites range from the traditional, elongated habit for the rice grains to many being more rounded and botryoidal. This fine, highly-representative small cabinet specimen is instantly recognizable as being from Broken Hill. They came out in the 1960s or before, as I recall. Most specimens are half this size if that, or simply matte coverings on gossan and rock. This is a spectacular display example of the rare occurrence. This was recently deaccessed from the extensive collection of Bob Reynolds, who cherished both minerals and fossils as he collected. Bob is a prolific author and has had several curating positions in museums.