Smithite xls; Lengenbach Quarry, Binntal, Valais, Switzerland; TN; unique piece
Smithite crystals from the Lengenbach Quarry, Binntal, Valais, Switzerland – miniature specimen as unique piece
This small specimen from the Lengenbach Quarry displays vivid orange Smithite zones on pale dolomite, accompanied by minor metallic inclusions that emphasise the distinctive appearance of this rare mineral. The strong colour contrast between Smithite and the host rock creates a clear visual focus, giving the piece an appealing and characteristic presence. As a single specimen from one of the world’s most renowned localities for complex sulfosalts, it holds both scientific and collector value.
Geology & Origin
The Lengenbach Quarry in the Binn Valley, Switzerland, is defined by a uniquely mineralised dolomite lens that has produced more than 160 rare mineral species. Smithite belongs to the typical yet comparatively uncommon sulfosalt assemblage found there. Its characteristic orange tones result from arsenic-sulphur compositions formed under low-temperature hydrothermal conditions. This specimen exemplifies the remarkable chemical diversity of this globally unique mineral deposit.
This table is for general information and orientation, although the sizes of the stones may vary. In addition, this specification is handled differently from region to region.
| Sizes | Description | approx. Sizes in mm/cm | approx. Sizes in INCH | |
| Capsule | Capsule | 0.1–0.5 mm in a transparent hard capsule (approx. 1 cm) | capsule contents 0.1–0.5 mm | capsule contents 0.004–0.02 in |
| TN/mm | Micromount (TN = Thumbnail) | everything fitting in a TN Perky box or a MM box of approx. 1 in | approx. 0.5–2.5 cm | max. 1 in |
| Min | Miniature specimen | will not fit a TN or MM box anymore | approx. 2.5–5 cm | approx. 0.2–1.0 in |
| Scab | small cabinet specimen | approx. one-third to half a hand size | approx. 5–9 cm | approx. 1.0–2.0 in |
| Cab | cabinet specimen | full hand size | approx. 9–15 cm | approx. 2.0–3.5 in |
| large Cab | large cabinet specimen | approx. two hand sizes | approx. 15–30 cm | approx. 3.5–6.0 in |
| very large Cab | very large cabinet specimen | everything larger, no upper limit |
Abbreviations commonly used in mineralogy.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
| xl | single crystal, possible with matrix |
| xls | noticeable crystals |
| (xl) | embedded or damaged |
| (xls) | embeddet or damaged |
| MASS | massive and/or amorphous pieces |
| TYP | type locality of the original description |
| SWUV | shortwave-UV-reaction |
| UV | ultraviolet reaction |
| SC | self-collected |
| U | unique (single unique piece) |
Usage Instructions
This product is ideal as a collector's item, decorative element, teaching material, or for scientific and exhibition purposes.
Legal Notices
Safety
We accept no liability for damages resulting from improper and/or non-recommended use. Please carefully assess the suitability of the product before any alternative use.
Responsible Provider
Mikon Mineralienkontor GmbH
Steinslieth 11
D-37130 Gleichen OT Klein Lengden
Email: info@mikon-online.com
| shipment-weight, NOT netto weight (kg) | 0.050000 |
|---|