What makes a world-class Cobaltoan Smithsonite specimen? Well, colour is arguably the most important individual factor, as without a rich vibrant pink tone everything else is lost. Crystal form is essential too, as massive Smithsonite is unlikely to out do a wonderful aggregate of sharply formed curved rhombic crystals, especially if they are large and undamaged. Then comes the arrangement, or how the specimen looks. This is the most subjective, but I would argue that this specimen ticks all of the above boxes. However, there are other subtle points which elevate this specimen above the norm. Things like the translucency and lustre of the Smithsonite crystals. They don't just have great colour, but they have internal flair too. Combined with an underlying dark matrix adds to its character and appeal, and it is 3-dimensional - lined all around with stunning, undamaged crystals. This really is a cracker from Tsumeb mine. Very large miniature and very nice indeed.
