Bi-colored Willemite from Tsumeb

Item Description

Willemite is a rare mineral in finely crystallized specimens and there are only a few localities in the world that produce great display specimens. I think the two top localities for willemite in the world are Franklin, New Jersey and of course, Tsumeb. The willemite specimens from Tsumeb are highly prized for their wide range of colors and amazing beauty, for which, this very rich piece definitely fits the bill. This fine piece is solid willemite. The scintillating, juicy, translucent crystals on the vuggy front are two-toned, cinnamon-red, that wraps around a chocolate-brown zone. The few, near colorless crystals scattered about are a super accent. The vug on the side has light brown-sugar crystals and the back has grayish-tan crystals. The front is in great shape with minimal periphery wear. The periphery wear and bruising are noted on the back, but in the overall context of this colorful and rich piece, have very limited impact. Bright golden-yellow fluorescence under LW black light and ghostly white under SW black light. Seldom available in this quality, richness and color variation. Valued at $1500-1800.