Smithsonite (fine color - classic material) (ex Henry de Linde Collection)

Item Description

Kelly Mine Smithsonites are renowned for their gorgeous color and superior quality. This locality dates back to 1878, and while specimens were found well into the 20th century, they are certainly dwindling in today's market. This piece is a classic example of this beloved material with the signature robin's-egg blue colored spherical aggregates and an almost vitreous satiny luster on the surface. The central "balls" are undamaged, but the periphery is understandably contacted where it was removed from the pocket wall. It's a fairly thick piece for what it is, and it GLOWS with intense seafoam blue-green color when backlit! I would certainly say that this is a "gem grade" specimen, but I wouldn't dream of having it cut / polished. A truly desirable specimen of this highly sought after material. Valued at $700. From the collection of Henry de Linde (March 21, 1923 – April 4, 2019) of Hot Spring, Arkansas. Henry was one of the most prominent figures in the history of Arkansas mining and mineral collecting. Along with being a miner, mineral collector and an amateur mineralogist, de Linde was one of the founders of the Coon Creek Association mineral club. He was the owner of several key localities in Arkansas including the Diamond Jo Quarry (on the south rim of Magnet Cove), the type locality for Delindeite, which was named in his honor in 1987.