Smithsonite (Cobalt-bearing)

Item Description

The acclaimed Tsumeb Mine in Namibia produced a wide variety of Smithsonite specimens, with various chromophores that can create dazzling colors ranging from green to yellow to orange to pink with plenty of other in between. Without a doubt, a healthy number of the most enticing and attractive cobalt-bearing Smithsonite specimens ever found are those from Tsumeb. This piece is filled with beautiful, vitreous, pastel pink color cobalt-bearing Smithsonite crystals measuring up to 6 mm, sitting on matrix. The crystals are distinct, and look very attractive up close. Good quality and very eye-catching, with only one spot of damage I can find on the display side. I love the color and style of the crystals on this one, very eye-catching in person. As you all know, Tsumeb minerals are not only highly sought after, but their value seems to increase daily on the market, as this mine is considered by many to be the greatest mineral locality in history.
From the collection of Colorado mining legend, Dave Bergman. Dave is now retired from mining, but was formerly the foreman and primary person in charge of recovering specimens at the famous Sweet Home Mine near Alma, Colorado during the late 1970s, and the maternal grandfather of Brian Kosnar. See Dave's photo mining at the Sweet Home on page 58 of Peter Bancroft's book "Gem and Crystal Treasures".​