Zincolivenite

This striking thumbnail specimen features two lustrous, crystals of Zincolivenite, the main crystal is up to 10 mm, exceptionally large for this habit. The crystals exhibit an intense, electric-green colour with superb lustre, making them a standout for the species. A small amount of olivenite is also attached to the base.

Zincolivenite, a rare and relatively new species, is the intermediate member of the solid-solution series between olivenite and adamite, with an ideal Zn:Cu ratio of 1:1. This relationship explains its structural and visual similarities to both species. Historically, such crystals from Tsumeb were misidentified, often labelled as "adamite," "Zn-olivenite," or more commonly, "cuproadamite" on older labels. Only in recent decades, after careful analyses and eventual IMA approval, was zincolivenite formally recognized as its own distinct mineral species.

The Tsumeb Mine remains the world’s most iconic source of zincolivenite, producing specimens of extraordinary colour, lustre, and size. However, clusters with crystals approaching a centimeter in length are quite uncommon and highly sought after. This piece is an outstanding representation of the species, combining rarity, superb crystallization, and a direct connection to the rich mineralogical history of Tsumeb.