Smithsonite on reticulated Cerussite

Item Description

A classic display specimen from Tsumeb featuring a full coverage of fine, sharp, rather lustrous, well-formed, gentle beige-tan colored rhombic crystals measuring up to 5 mm across, completely covering a reticulated "snowflake"-shaped group of smoky, translucent Cerussite crystals. The piece is in fine condition, with no major damage I can find on the display side, and when you flip the piece over, you can see some of the uncovered / exposed Cerussite crystals underneath. A very showy, elegant and three-dimensional display piece from this most classic and prolific of localities. Valued $1,500. Formerly in the Don Belsher collection.
From the collection of longtime mineral collector Dr. Bob Lauf (Collection #3933), the author of the Mineral Collectors Guide books (Schiffer Publishing), widely seen at mineral shows and libraries. Robert Lauf grew up in Chicago and attended the University of Illinois, ultimately receiving a Ph.D. in Metallurgical Engineering. His scientific career included over twenty years at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, where he conducted research on topics ranging from nuclear fuel, coal by-products, materials synthesis, microwave processing, sensors, optical materials, and biomineralization. He has been granted over forty U.S. Patents for his inventions, many of which have become successful industrial products. He is now a Registered Patent Agent and technology consultant.