Smithsonite with Aurichalcite (classic material)

Item Description

A lovely classic association specimen from the famous Kelly Mine in New Mexico, which has produced some of the finest examples of Smithsonite (particularly blue Smithsonite) in the world. This piece features gorgeous, gemmy, soft blue colored "rice grain" habit crystals of Smithsonite which are associated with brighter blue acicular crystals and "sprays" on matrix. The largest Smithsonite measures about 6 mm across. No real damage I can find outside of the periphery where the piece was removed from the pocket wall. The Smithsonites are best seen under magnification, and we've photographed them with a close-up lens to better illustrate their quality.
From the collection of John Whatley, a well-known Georgia collector (1939-2022). John had many interests and hobbies, and favorite hobby was collecting rocks and minerals. He was a member of the Augusta and Aiken, SC Gem and Mineral Society. He also enjoyed collecting arrowheads and he co-authored the book, An Overview of Georgia Projectile Points and Select Cutting Tools. He was a member of the Georgia, South Carolina, and Alabama Archaeology Societies and he also enjoyed volunteering in the Archaeology Department at SRS.
You can read more about John at: https://www.thomaspoteet.com/obituaries/john-whatley