Calcite included w/ Hematite (Rob Smith Coll.)

Item Description

Glassy, highly lustrous, calcite rhombs are included with hematite on this striking, excellent and unusual calcite from the famous and now-closed Tsumeb Mine and the Rob Smith Collection. There are actually two generations of calcite and hematite on this specimen. The calcite rhombs, to 2.4 cm, are coated with a first generation of moderately lustrous, rust-red hematite. Preferentially overcoating the rhombs is a second generation of very glassy, translucent, calcite included with beautiful, brick-red hematite. The second-generation overgrowth is truly impressive and really livens up the piece. A trivial bit of brusing and modest periphery wear are noted, but are certainly minimal detractions to this beautiful Tsumeb calcite. Valued at $500.