Smithsonite (611)

specimen number:
8811735

location:
Kelly Mine, Socorro Co., New Mexico, USA

description:
An open pocket completely lined with attractive bluish green lustrous and chatoyant smithsonite crystals. In great condition. The specimen was on display at the 2026 Tucson Gem and Mineral Show. Very fine for this American classic.

The Kelly Mine in Socorro County, New Mexico was part of the Magdalena mining district, a region developed in the late 19th century for lead, zinc, and silver production. The mine worked replacement deposits hosted in limestone, where hydrothermal fluids introduced minerals such as galena, smithsonite, and other secondary zinc minerals. Mining expanded during the late 1800s and early 1900s and supported the nearby town of Kelly, which grew around the mining operations. Although commercial mining declined in the 20th century, the locality is well known among mineral collectors for fine specimens of smithsonite and related minerals from this historic New Mexico mining district.

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