Smithsonite (stalactite)

An unusual, slightly ovalized stalactite of colourless and gemmy Smithsonite crystals from Tsumeb mine in the Oshikoto Region of Namibia.  The stalactite’s core is visible at opposite ends of the specimen and is a black mineral, varying between polycrystalline and granular with a metallic lustre in parts and thought probably to be Sphalerite.  This is coated with creamy white to salmon pink micro-crystals of Smithsonite over which the large and gemmy outer covering of Smithsonite crystals have formed.  This out layer is quite stunning, composed of interlocked curved rhombic Smithsonite as colourless and gemmy crystals averaging 1 to 1.3 cm on edge with occasional crystals to 1.6 cm.  These are all glassy with a brilliant reflective lustre while their pure transparency allows the underlying salmon pink to show through.  Without doubt, a fabulous, good-sized cabinet Smithsonite stalactite from Tsumeb.