Smithsonite (2259)

specimen number:
8811777

location:
Lavrion, Attica, Greece

description:
Beautiful sparkling blue botryoidal crystallized smithsonite across the front of matrix. In great condition and with super color, excellent for this classic locality and species.

Mining at Lavrion in Attica, Greece has a long and remarkable history dating back to ancient times, when the area was a major source of silver that helped finance the growth of classical Athens. Extensive underground workings were developed to extract lead silver ores from carbonate host rocks, and mining continued intermittently through the centuries, with renewed industrial activity in the 19th and early 20th centuries. In addition to its historical importance, Lavrion is world famous among mineral collectors for its exceptional secondary minerals formed in the oxidized zones of the deposits. Among these, blue smithsonite is especially prized, occurring as smooth botryoidal masses and crusts with vivid blue coloration caused by trace elements. These specimens are often associated with other secondary minerals such as hemimorphite, and are considered some of the finest examples of smithsonite in the world.

This specimen was on public display at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, 2026.

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