Cuprian Smithsonite       Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia, South West Africa.  Ex. Thomas G. Fowler collection.  This pretty apple green color is so attractive in smithsonite and sadly so rare.  The specimen seen here is a fantastic dome shaped piece entirely coated on its upper surfaces by a druse of green crystals.  The backside (base?) has similar crystals but they more thinly scattered giving you a look at their appearance as individuals.  They are small, only reaching a few millimeters each, but they are very high in luster, nice in their form and totally damage-free.  The piece could be positioned several different ways, all of which give beautiful views of damage-free surfaces of intense color.  6.9 x 5.5 x 3 cm.  Impressive.  $6,000