Smithsonite. Rush, Rush Creek Mining District, Marion County, Arkansas, USA. 14.2 x 11.7 x 11.5 cm (5.59 x 4.61 x 4.53 in). ...

Description

Smithsonite
Rush, Rush Creek Mining District, Marion County, Arkansas, USA
14.2 x 11.7 x 11.5 cm (5.59 x 4.61 x 4.53 in)

Just about every side of this specimen is coated in a continuous layer of intergrown, mamillary Smithsonite that ranges from translucent to opaque milky white. The swelling surface gives the piece a smooth, glazed appearance that reflects light gently across its curves. The underside is naturally flat, allowing the piece to display cleanly on its own, and reveals a dolomitic matrix topped with a fine layer of sparkling microcrystals. With mining operations in the area having ceased in the early 1960s, such well-preserved examples have become increasingly uncommon. This piece is in excellent condition with a few minor abrasions, which thankfully do not detract much from the piece's impressive presentation.

Ex. George R. Witters collection.

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