Cerussite crystals from the Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia – micromount as unique piece
This micromount specimen shows Cerussite crystals from the Tsumeb Mine in Namibia and was collected before 1983. The piece stands out with its fine well structured crystal formation and the typical elegant appearance of this mineral.
The Cerussite crystals appear colorless to slightly milky and are clearly developed. They show slender prismatic to acicular crystals with good transparency and a vitreous luster. In places they form clustered aggregates giving the specimen a delicate and highly aesthetic structure. The crystals are clearly recognizable and appear especially fine and detailed.
Geology & Origin
Cerussite is a secondary lead carbonate forming in the oxidation zone of lead ore deposits through the alteration of galena. Its often well developed crystals are among the classic collector minerals worldwide.
The Tsumeb Mine in the Otavi Mountains is one of the most important mineral localities in the world known for its extraordinary diversity of rare and aesthetically outstanding minerals. The complex geochemical conditions of this deposit led to the formation of exceptional mineral associations with intense colors and beautifully developed crystals.