Kermesite, Stibnite

This thumbnail specimen features one main spray of lustrous maroon semi-irridescent kermesite on top of sprays of metallic-silver stibnite crystals. The specimen has tiny vugs that allow us to see some free standing micro stibnite prisms. Kermesite, also known as antimony oxysulfide, forms through the partial oxidation of stibnite in the presence of other antimony oxides such as valentinite or stibiconite. This mineralogical association is particularly unusual, highlighting the complex geochemical processes that occur during the oxidation of antimony-bearing minerals. The presence of both kermesite and stibnite in this specimen underscores the dynamic nature of mineral formation and alteration, making it a noteworthy addition to any collection.