Smithite, Realgar xls; Lengenbach Quarry, Binntal, Valais, Switzerland; TN; unique piece
Smithite and Realgar crystals from the Lengenbach Quarry, Binntal, Valais, Switzerland – miniature specimen as unique piece
This miniature specimen features crystals of Smithite and Realgar from the Lengenbach Quarry, Binntal, Valais, Switzerland. The bright red Realgar areas stand out clearly on the light, fine-grained matrix, accompanied by darker Smithite zones that create a distinct mineralogical contrast. This association of two rare sulfosalts is characteristic of the Lengenbach paragenesis and gives the specimen considerable significance despite its small size. The piece is well documented and originates from find LB-307, collected in 1998.
Geology & Origin
Smithite and Realgar are arsenic-bearing sulfosalts for which the Lengenbach Quarry is internationally renowned. Their formation required highly specific geochemical conditions within a dolomitic host rock, resulting in an exceptional diversity of rare mineral species. The Binntal area is regarded as one of the most important localities worldwide for such mineral associations and is of great importance to both collectors and mineralogical research.
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) | embeddet 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) | 0.050000 |
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