Adamite and Gartrellite crystals from the Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia, Ilse Baer collection– miniature specimen as unique piece
This miniature specimen shows Adamine and Gartrellite crystals from the Tsumeb Mine in Namibia and originates from the Ilse Baer collection. The piece was collected before 1972 combining aesthetic appeal with historical collector value.
The Adamine crystals display bright yellow to yellow green colors forming fine crystalline to granular aggregates covering large parts of the surface. Gartrellite occurs in greenish tones appearing as crystalline coatings and small aggregates between the Adamine. The crystals are clearly developed and create a vivid color interplay with strong contrasts between yellow green and the darker matrix.
Geology & Origin
Adamine is a secondary zinc arsenate mineral forming in the oxidation zone of polymetallic deposits. It is well known for its often bright colors and fine crystal development.
Gartrellite is also a secondary arsenate mineral forming under similar conditions through complex alteration processes of primary ore minerals.
The Tsumeb Mine in the Otavi Mountains is one of the most important mineral localities in the world especially known for its diversity of secondary minerals. The exceptionally complex geochemical environment of this deposit led to the formation of numerous rare mineral species with vivid colors and characteristic associations.