Arsentsumebite

This Arsentsumebite from Tsumeb mine in Namibia may be more a large micromount than a thumbnail, but it defiantly proves quality not quantity can be the better option!  The Arsentsumebite forms stalagmitic structures of 2 to 5 mm tall and could possibly be pseudomorphs after mimetite.  Odd crystals that are broken however, reveal a hexagonal glassy core, so it would appear these are Mimetite crystals coated with crystallised Arsentsumebite.  The crystals are a limey-apple green and where fine acicular coatings of Malachite overgrow, grade to a powdery turquoise duck-egg blue with a fine velvety texture.  A beautiful small thumbnail of this relatively rare species from Tsumeb.