Tsumcorite xls; Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia; TN; unique piece
Tsumcorite crystals from the Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia – micromount as unique piece
This micromount specimen from before 1986 shows Tsumcorite crystals from the Tsumeb Mine in Namibia. The piece is characterized by the strong color contrast between the light matrix and the vivid yellow crystal aggregates of this rare secondary mineral.
The Tsumcorite crystals form dense, fine grained to radial aggregates with a velvety to slightly matte appearance. Individual crystals are only partly distinguishable, yet the crystalline structure is clearly visible and gives the specimen a very attractive and intensely colored surface.
Geology & Origin
Tsumcorite belongs to the tsumcorite group of arsenate minerals and forms in the oxidation zone of complex polymetallic deposits. Its formation involves specific geochemical conditions with elements such as lead, zinc and arsenic.
The Tsumeb Mine in the Otavi Mountains is one of the most important localities worldwide for rare secondary minerals. Especially members of the tsumcorite group occur here in exceptional diversity and quality.
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) | 0.050000 |
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