Object Description
A large natural blue and white smithsonite plate-like specimen.
Once forming part of a private UK collection, this striking icy-blue specimen of an irregular shape originates from Mexico, presented on one of our large painted plaster bases.
Smithsonite is an ore of zinc with a botryoidal structure – a term used to describe its clustered, grape-like formations characterised by their rounded or bulbous shape. It is named after English scientist and mineralogist, James Smithson (1786 – 1929) who published numerous scientific papers on chemistry, geology and mineralogy in the early 1800s.
He was also responsible for defining calamine, which would later the renamed “smithsonite” in his honour.
Additional information
Includes an exclusive large custom-made neoclassical style display plinth – ø25.5 cm x height 9.5 cm
Additional dimensions (specimen only):
Height 25.5cm (10in)
Width 18.5cm (7.28in)
Depth 4cm (1.57in)
Weight 2.2kg