Smithsonite

specimen number:
8311394

location:
Tsumeb Mine, Otjikoto, Namibia

description:

Light pink lustrous translucent rhombohedral crystals of smithsonite measuring to 0.5 cm in size covering the top of this shapely matrix. In great condition.

The Tsumeb Mine, located in the Otavi Mountainland of northern Namibia, is a world-renowned polymetallic deposit and a premier locality for secondary minerals. Geologically, it is a pipe-like ore body hosted within Neo-Proterozoic carbonate rocks, particularly dolomite, where deep-reaching oxidation created an incredibly diverse mineralogical environment. The mine is famous for its exceptional pink smithsonite, which owes its vibrant color to trace amounts of cobalt within the crystal structure, often appearing as lustrous rhombohedral crystals or botryoidal masses. Historically, the deposit was known by local San and Owambo people for centuries before German colonial interest led to the formation of the Otavi Minen-und Eisenbahn-Gesellschaft (OMEG). Industrial operations began in 1907 and continued with few interruptions until the mine finally closed in 1996 due to flooding and economic factors. Over its 89-year life, Tsumeb produced millions of tons of copper, lead, and zinc ore, while simultaneously providing the global mineral market with some of the most aesthetic and scientifically significant specimens ever recovered.

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