Botallakite

This specimen features a rich aggregation of botallackite from the Levant Mine, showcasing its characteristic blue-green hue in well-formed crystals. The mineral displays an iridescent sheen, with scintillating sprays of bright needles throughout the granular limonite matrix. Accompanying the specimen is a small vial containing loose crystals and a British Museum label dating back several decades.

Botallackite is polymorphous with atacamite, paratacamite, and clinoatacamite. It forms in copper deposits exposed to weathering and saltwater. It has also been reported in black smoker deposits, where sulfide minerals react with seawater. As an uncommon and striking secondary copper mineral from the type locality region, this specimen is a fine example. While botallackite crystals are notoriously delicate, this piece has stable areas around the limonite matrix that can be handled without disturbing the beautiful crystal growth.