Smithsonite, Cerussite xls; Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia; Ilse Baer collection; Scab; unique piece
Smithsonite and Cerussite crystals from the Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia, Ilse Baer collection – small cabinet specimen as unique piece
This miniature specimen displays Smithsonite and Cerussite crystals developed together within an open cavity. The mostly colorless to slightly milky Cerussite crystals are clearly visible and stand out in strong contrast against the dark, compact matrix. Lighter Smithsonite crystals accompany them, adding additional texture and mineralogical complexity to the specimen. The well-balanced association of both minerals with clear spatial separation is characteristic of high-quality parageneses from Tsumeb. The specimen originates from the Ilse Baer collection and was collected prior to 1972, which significantly enhances its historical and collector value.
Geology & Origin
The Tsumeb Mine in the Otavi Mountains, Namibia, is one of the world’s most important polymetallic deposits. Smithsonite and Cerussite form here within the oxidation zone through the alteration of primary zinc and lead sulfides. Cerussite commonly develops in open cavities, while Smithsonite often occurs as a secondary overgrowth or associated crystal formation. Specimens from the Ilse Baer collection are particularly valued due to their early provenance and careful selection, representing classic formation conditions of this exceptional locality.
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) | 0.100000 |
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