Native Copper xls in Selenite; Mission Mine, Tucson, AZ, USA; Min; unique piece
Native Copper crystals in Selenite from the Mission Mine, Tucson, AZ, USA – miniature specimen as unique piece
This miniature specimen features native Copper crystals embedded in transparent to slightly milky Selenite from Arizona, USA. The piece is characterized by the clear cleavable Selenite matrix, within which fine reddish to brownish shimmering Copper structures stand out distinctly. The combination of transparent gypsum and metallic Copper creates an appealing visual contrast.
The Copper crystals are embedded and appear as fine branching to filamentous aggregates within the Selenite. Individual crystal forms are partly recognizable, while the crystalline nature is clearly evident through the linear structures and metallic luster. The Selenite itself shows well developed cleavage surfaces and a typical slightly vitreous to silky appearance.
Geology & Origin
Native Copper forms in the oxidized zones of copper deposits, often through secondary processes under reducing conditions. In association with Selenite, it develops in cavities or fractures where sulfate rich solutions crystallize. The Mission Mine in Arizona is one of the major copper deposits in the USA and occasionally produces aesthetically interesting combinations of metallic and sulfate minerals.
This table is for general information and orientation, although the sizes of the stones may vary. In addition, this specification is handled differently from region to region.
| Sizes | Description | approx. Sizes in mm/cm | approx. Sizes in INCH | |
| Capsule | Capsule | 0.1–0.5 mm in a transparent hard capsule (approx. 1 cm) | capsule contents 0.1–0.5 mm | capsule contents 0.004–0.02 in |
| TN/mm | Micromount (TN = Thumbnail) | everything fitting in a TN Perky box or a MM box of approx. 1 in | approx. 0.5–2.5 cm | max. 1 in |
| Min | Miniature specimen | will not fit a TN or MM box anymore | approx. 2.5–5 cm | approx. 0.2–1.0 in |
| Scab | small cabinet specimen | approx. one-third to half a hand size | approx. 5–9 cm | approx. 1.0–2.0 in |
| Cab | cabinet specimen | full hand size | approx. 9–15 cm | approx. 2.0–3.5 in |
| large Cab | large cabinet specimen | approx. two hand sizes | approx. 15–30 cm | approx. 3.5–6.0 in |
| very large Cab | very large cabinet specimen | everything larger, no upper limit |
Abbreviations commonly used in mineralogy.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
| xl | single crystal, possible with matrix |
| xls | noticeable crystals |
| (xl) | embedded or damaged |
| (xls) | embedded or damaged |
| MASS | massive and/or amorphous pieces |
| TYP | type locality of the original description |
| SWUV | shortwave-UV-reaction |
| UV | ultraviolet reaction |
| SC | self-collected |
| U | unique (single unique piece) |
Usage Instructions
This product is ideal as a collector's item, decorative element, teaching material, or for scientific and exhibition purposes.
Legal Notices
Safety
We accept no liability for damages resulting from improper and/or non-recommended use. Please carefully assess the suitability of the product before any alternative use.
Responsible Provider
Mikon Mineralienkontor GmbH
Steinslieth 11
D-37130 Gleichen OT Klein Lengden
Email: info@mikon-online.com
| shipment-weight, NOT netto weight (kg) | 0.080000 |
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