Zincgartrellite, Olivenite xls; Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia; TN; unique piece
Zincgartrellite and Olivenite crystals from the Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia – micromount as unique piece
This micromount specimen from before 1995 shows Zincgartrellite and Olivenite crystals from the famous Tsumeb Mine in Namibia in a particularly striking color contrast association. The intense yellow fine crystalline coatings of Zincgartrellite cover parts of the dark matrix creating a vivid and bright appearance.
Associated with this are darker greenish Olivenite crystals occurring in compact form with locally well defined crystal faces. Slightly reddish to brownish areas further enhance the overall color composition. The crystals are clearly recognizable giving the specimen a vivid and highly detailed structure with strong aesthetic appeal.
Geology & Origin
Zincgartrellite is a rare secondary copper zinc arsenate forming in the oxidation zone of complex ore deposits. Olivenite is also a secondary copper arsenate and commonly occurs in close association with other arsenate minerals.
The Tsumeb Mine in the Otavi Mountains is one of the most important localities worldwide for secondary copper and zinc minerals. The exceptional geochemical conditions of this deposit have led to the formation of numerous rare mineral species. Older specimens especially those collected before 1995 originate from the classic mining periods and are highly valued among collectors.
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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