Rosasite, Calcite, Hemimorphite, (White and Green) Smithsonite

This is a particularly showy and well-balanced combination specimen from the renowned 79 Mine. Scattered across the surface are micro-botryoidal clusters of teal-blue rosasite, perched atop a layer densely covered in clear hemimorphite crystals. Intermixed are matte, disk-like aggregates of colourless calcite. Beneath this richly mineralized surface lies a hefty banded matrix of green smithsonite. On the back is also a patch of white smithsonite. This is an excellent example of association material from this classic Arizona locality making for a standout piece for collectors focused on Arizona minerals or multi-species associations.

The 79 Mine, discovered in 1879, is a historic American lead-zinc deposit with a long and complex operational history. Though it remains closed to the public, recent renewed activity under current ownership has led to a resurgence in specimen recovery. The mine continues to be a premier source of fine mineral specimens, particularly known for its distinctive blue hemimorphite, cuprian smithsonite, and yellow wulfenite.