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Smithsonite

Name: Smithsonite
SKU: 33217-PT
Availability: OutOfStock

33217-PT Category: _Archives –specimens pending sale or deletion

Tsumeb Mine, Otjikoto Region

Namibia

Dimensions: 3.5x4.5x4.5 cm

Largest crystal size: 7 mm

Price: CA

This specimen features numerous colourless, transparent smithsonite rhombohedrons with stepped faces and a subtle, satin-like interior sheen. The crystals are in excellent condition and elegantly cover one side of an iron oxide-stained matrix, adding a distinctive contrast that highlights the clarity and sharpness of each rhombohedron. This is a classic smithsonite variety from the renowned Tsumeb Mine, known for producing a wide variety of distinct world-class smithsonites.

Dr. Tarassoff acquired this specimen in 1979 from Hawthorneden Mineral Services (Frank and Wendy Melanson) at the Montreal Gem and Mineral Show, this piece is representative of the exceptional smithsonite finds from Tsumeb, where mineral diversity and crystallographic perfection are unmatched. Tsumeb smithsonites are celebrated for their beauty, clarity, and distinctive forms, making this piece a prized addition for collectors of minerals from this historic locality.

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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. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years, where he was formally appointed the Honorary Curator of Mineralogy. 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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