Tennantite

specimen number:
2133212

location:
Tsumeb Mine, Otjikoto, Namibia

description:

Very choice example for the species, sharp crystals of tennantite measuring to 2.3 cm in size forming a cluster with minor quartz. This is in excellent condition.

The Tsumeb Mine, located in the Otavi Mountainland of northern Namibia, is widely considered the most significant mineral locality in history, famous for its complex tennantite specimens. Geologically, the deposit is a polymetallic pipe-like structure hosted within Neoproterozoic carbonates of the Otavi Group, where hydrothermal fluids deposited a vast array of primary sulfides, including tennantite, within brecciated dolomite. As a member of the tetrahedrite group, tennantite at Tsumeb often occurs as sharp, metallic grey tetrahedral crystals, frequently appearing as a primary mineral in the deep sulfide zones or as a core for secondary oxidation products. Historically, the mine began formal operations in 1907 under the Otavi Minen und Eisenbahn-Gesellschaft (OMEG) and later transitioned to the Tsumeb Corporation Limited (TCL) in 1947. Mining continued through three major oxidation zones until the main shaft finally closed in 1996 due to labor disputes and declining ore grades. During its 89 years of operation, Tsumeb produced more than 300 different mineral species, with its tennantite crystals remaining highly valued for their size, luster, and historical importance in the study of copper-arsenic sulfosalts.

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