Scorodite

Item Description

Scorodite is one of the most beautiful and rare of species sought by mineral collectors, and comes from few locations in quality. Morocco, specifically the Bou Azzer mining district, has produced some outstanding Scorodite (a rare hydrated iron arsenate) specimens over the years. One entire side of this small-cabinet piece is completely covered by sharp and complex Scorodite crystals to about 4 mm, which size-wise isn't too shabby for the species. The colors of these gemmy crystals range from the classic grey-blue to a golden-brown, and many crystals actually contain both colors. And as good as these characteristics are, the knockout trait is the absolutely SUPERB sub-adamantine luster. Looking at this piece, even under one single light, is like being mesmerized by a field of blue or brown mirrors. Pieces like this, the few that there are, probably came out anywhere from the 1980s to the early 2000s. This is likely from either the Aghbar Mine or Oumlil Mine, cobalt/nickel localities within walking distance of each other. The quality and aesthetics are so good that you could be forgiven if you thought this fine piece was from one of the great Scorodite localites worldwide, Mexico or Tsumeb among them.