Smithsonite & Sphalerite

This highly aesthetic micromount displays a striking association of deep red sphalerite with white smithsonite crystals, delicately coated by a thin veil of greenockite.

The sphalerite forms the core of the specimen, as well-developed, sharply edged crystals showing a dark red to ruby-red colour, with a brilliant adamantine lustre and strong internal reflections typical of zinc sulfide. Fine growth striations and reflective crystal faces enhance the visual complexity.

The smithsonite occurs as rounded globules and small crystal aggregates, creamy white to translucent, arranged around the sphalerite. Their soft, silky to matte surface provides a strong contrast with the high lustre of the sphalerite.

A very thin coating of greenockite (cadmium sulfide) partially covers the smithsonite, imparting a subtle yellow-green to pale green tint, especially visible on the outer surfaces of the globules. This rare mineral is characteristic of some parageneses from the Baugis deposit and adds significant mineralogical interest.

In a box 2.8x2.8cm, labelled

FoV : 3.5mm