Smithsonite

Name: Smithsonite
SKU: 32700-PT
Price: 200.00 CAD
Availability: InStock

32700-PT Category: Mexico - Various Species and Localities Tag: Featured

San Antonio Mine, Santa Eulalia District, Chihuahua

Mexico

Dimensions: 2.5x6.0x2.5 cm

Price: CA

$200.00

This specimen of mauve botryoidal smithsonite is exceptional, as it completely coats a small matrix on the underside, showcasing a rare colour for the locality. It is in pristine condition with no damage and represents a notable older find from before the 1980s. Acquired by Dr. Tarassoff in 1974, this piece resembles more modern material from the El Refugio Mine in Sinaloa. However, based on its age and the nature of the matrix, it is more likely from the San Antonio Mine in Chihuahua (only Chihuahua is listed on the original label). This attribution is further supported by a similar specimen in the John Betts online reference museum, see: http://www.johnbetts-fineminerals.com/jhbnyc/mineralmuseum/picshow.php?id=25815

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This specimen comes from the collection of Dr. Peter Tarassoff, a prominent figure in mineralogy, particularly known for his work at Mont Saint-Hilaire (MSH). His diligent collecting and examination efforts have led him to be the first to identify at least 35 species and discover 12 new species, not only at MSH but also at other alkaline localities. Dubbed the "Dean" of Mont Saint-Hilaire collectors, Peter was honoured with the naming of the new species petarasite in 1980. He has authored or co-authored numerous mineralogical articles and has been a member of the Mineralogical Association of Canada since 1964 and the Mineralogical Society of America for over 30 years. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years. In recognition of his significant contributions to mineralogy, Peter was awarded the 2017 Pinch Medal by the Mineralogical Association of Canada.

Peter's dedication to systematic collecting, curating his collection, and maintaining an archive of detailed historical and scientific information has greatly benefited the mineral sciences community both in Canada and globally. All specimens from this collection come with the original P. Tarassoff collection label.

Note: All prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD). International customers are charged in CAD, exchange rate is calculated automatically by your bank/paypal upon checkout.

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