Smithsonite
stock #ALEC-22-168
San Antonio Mine
Chihuahua,
Mexico
5.3 x 3.3 x 2.3 CM (cabinet)
price: $280
Post Tucson 2015
Small but perfect and pretty miniature of crystallized Smithsonite in "rice grain" habit crystals covering the botroidal surfaces. A dusting of tiny Selenite crystals adds some contrast. Remarkably there is not the slightest hint of damage or bruising on this piece. Very nice color, structure and lustre.
Cassiterite
stock #ALEC-22-183
San Antonio Mine
Loayza Province, La Paz department,
Bolivia
5 x 3.4 x 2.2 CM (miniature)
price: $140
pre Tucson 2015 update
One of the oldest and best localities for fine Cassiterites in the Americas is the La Paz area of Bolivia. This specimen has well formed and lustrous crystals that under strong lighting show some translucence. The "naked eye" color is shiny black but the "under strong lighting" color is a deep honey orange hue. Some tiny edge chipping exists but most crystals are pristine and the quality for the price is a very good value.
