Smithsonite with Chrysocolla

specimen number:
2063642

location:
79 Mine, Gila Co., Arizona, USA

description:
An open pocket across the front of matrix is lined with light green lustrous translucent crystallized smithsonite. Small blue botryoids of chrysocolla are scattered throughout. In good condition. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Ray DeMark. He collected the piece on February 8, 1995.

The Seventy-Nine Mine, situated in the Dripping Spring Mountains of Gila County, Arizona, was originally discovered in 1879 and operated intermittently as an underground base metal producer before transitioning into a legendary locality for mineral specimens. Geologically, the deposit consists of replacement ore bodies and veins formed within faulted Paleozoic limestone and shale units intruded by igneous rocks, where intense oxidation created a rich zone of secondary minerals. Among its most prized treasures is green smithsonite, colored by copper impurities and found as brilliant botryoidal crusts and crystal linings in underground vugs. Because of its exceptional mineral diversity, the mine has long remained a primary focus for specialized collectors and field enthusiasts exploring Arizona mining history.

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