Smithsonite with Aurichalcite

specimen number:
2063619

location:
79 Mine, Gila Co., Arizona, USA

description:
Non-lustrous slightly translucent green botryoidal smithsonite covering an area approximately 3.0 x 2.5 cm in size on matrix. Small blue micro crystals of aurichalcite scattered throughout. In good condition. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Ray DeMark. He collected the piece in February, 1995.

Located in the Banner Mining District of Gila County, Arizona, the 79 Mine is a celebrated lead-zinc-copper deposit emplaced within Palaeozoic limestone and rhyolite host rocks that underwent extensive hydrothermal activity during the Laramide orogeny. Discovered in 1879 by brothers Mike and Pat O'Brien, the site was commercially worked for base metals through much of the twentieth century before transitioning into a famous locality for specimen collecting. The mine's deeply oxidized upper zones created ideal geochemical conditions for the formation of vibrant secondary minerals, most notably apple-green cuprian smithsonite. Highly prized by mineral collectors and museums for its rich green coloration and distinct botryoidal or crust-like crystal habits, this zinc carbonate mineral remains one of the most iconic mineral species associated with the historic 79 Mine.

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