Calcite, Duftite, and Hydrozincite (presumed)

Item Description

A SUPERB, 2 cm crystal of Calcite rises majestically above the matrix is this unusual and excellent small-cabinet piece from Tsumeb. This particular habit for Calcite is uncommon in general, and certainly rare for Tsumeb. With its slender and sharp form, high luster, and good gemminess, it is an impressive Calcite no matter how you slice it. Making the specimen even more alluring is the fact that much of the matrix is sprinkled with a hefty number of deep olive-green Duftite crystals. Tsumeb is the TYPE LOCALITY for Duftite, and even here you don't often see the crystals so well-formed with sharp, lustrous faces and gemmy interiors, tiny though they may be at 1mm or less. The Calcite has a gorgeous, glassy-orange-red fluorescence and the white mineral a bright, blue-white fluorescence (which probably indicates hydrozincite although we have not confirmed by analysis), and together that complement each other wonderfully. This is a rare combination piece, especially when you factor in all the exceptional qualities of the Calcite and the Duftite. This could trim to an incredible calcite thumbnail, as well!