Smithsonite with Dolomite, Sphalerite (2268)

specimen number:
8811738

location:
Rush, Marion Co., Arkansas, USA

description:

Gorgeous brilliant sparkling yellow crystals of smithsonite across the top of rhombohedral dolomite crystals and covering matrix with minor sphalerite. In super condition. The color on this is outstanding. These were known locally for many years as Turkey Fat smithsonite specimens. The quality of this one is excellent.

Justly famous for producing beautiful yellow smithsonite, zinc mining in Rush, Arkansas began in the late 19th century after the discovery of zinc rich deposits in the Ozark Mountains. The district produced sphalerite and related minerals from hydrothermal deposits hosted in limestone and dolomite. Mining expanded in the early 20th century and the town of Rush grew as a center for zinc production. Activity later declined as ore deposits were exhausted, and the area is now preserved as part of Buffalo National River with remaining historic mining structures.

Yellow to golden smithsonite from the Rush district is generally attributed to trace cadmium substituting for zinc in the crystal structure. Even very small amounts of cadmium can produce a distinct yellow color.

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