Olivenite and Cuproadamite crystals from the Tsumeb Mine, Otavi Mountains, Namibia – micromount as unique piece
This micromount specimen shows Olivenite and Cuproadamite crystals from Namibia on a contrasting matrix. The Olivenite crystals display an intense dark green color with clearly visible crystal structure and partly lustrous faces forming compact aggregates that stand out from the lighter matrix.
Associated with them are lighter greenish to whitish areas of Cuproadamite covering parts of the matrix creating an interesting color contrast with the darker Olivenite crystals. The crystals are clearly recognizable and give the specimen a vivid and multi layered appearance with strong aesthetic appeal.
Geology & Origin
Olivenite is a copper arsenate that typically forms in the oxidation zone of copper deposits. Cuproadamite belongs to the Adamite group and also forms as a secondary mineral under oxidizing conditions often in close association with other copper and zinc minerals.
The Tsumeb Mine in Namibia is world famous for its exceptional mineral diversity and complex parageneses. The unique geochemical conditions of this deposit allow the formation of numerous rare and visually attractive mineral species including combinations such as Olivenite and Cuproadamite.