Azurite and Smithsonite - rare old classic

Item Description

Highlighted by lustrous Azurites up to 2.5 mm, this fine, small cabinet piece well-represents many of the specimens that survived from this giant lead, zinc and copper mine. Under just the right light, the Azurites can glow with their classic, electric-blue translucence, and the rich suite of associated minerals adds greatly to the interest of this piece. The green sprays are Malachite/Olivenite, and the significant amount of opaque yellow clusters and crystals is likely Smithsonite/Mimetite. As with many a sad story often told, the vast majority of crystallized specimens ended up in the smelter before people realized the specimen loss that was occuring. The mine was closed in 1982, but some solace can be gained from the fact that excellent micromounts can still be collected from some of the remains outside the current power plant. Originally purchased from George Bideaux (old dealer label included), it is fortunate that quality pieces like this have survived. Recently deaccessed from the Tim Sherburn collection.