Tsumeb Mine, Tsumeb, Otjikoto Region, Namibia

Smithsonite occurs all across the world, but facetable crystals are extremely rare and exceedingly difficult to cut. The yellow stones found in Tsumeb, Naibia are some of the highest prized Smithsonites amongst collectors, however many varieties exist in many stunning colors.

The yellow seen in this Smithsonite is due to the cadmium content in the mineral, and immediately reminds collectors of the famous classic yellow Cadmian Smithsonites from the Masua Mine in Italy that were mined and closed many decades ago.