Smithsonite. Kelly Mine, Magdalena Mining District, Socorro County, New Mexico, USA. 12.3 x 9.9 x 2.9 cm (4.85 x 3.91 x 1.16...

Description

Smithsonite
Kelly Mine, Magdalena Mining District, Socorro County, New Mexico, USA
12.3 x 9.9 x 2.9 cm (4.85 x 3.91 x 1.16 in)

The color of this Smithsonite specimen is a not-too-light, not-too-dark expanse of robin's-egg blue, which reveals the rich Copper impurities within the chemical structure of this specimen. It is this color that is the unmistakable indicator of the Smithsonite's origin: the Kelly Mine of New Mexico, a mine famed for the singular color of its specimens. In addition to the hallmark hue it bears, this specimen is also graced with the quintessential "wet" luster, which is likely the closest one can get to describing the particular reflectivity of this Smithsonite. This sheen makes a mesmerizing effect when the specimen is rotated, particularly before a strong light, which results in dancing highlights across the botryoidal surface. Incredibly, this brilliant display is virtually free of any damage on the display front whatsoever, a rarity among specimens of this style, as many get bruised along the way. The sides of the specimen reveal a cross-section of undulating layers of Smithsonite, with slight variations in color.

From The Edgehill Collection.

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