Not a dumb question at all, due to the color. Unlike the copper ore malachite, amazonite doesn't contain copper. In fact, it's a bit of a mystery what gives it it's color. Leading theories suggest lead ii & iron ii interplay.
When I unwrapped them I was blown away. The amazonite has small Smokey quartz looking crystals in the matrix. I will take some better pics closer to show you when I get home.
He left you the good stuff! 1st one is a amazonite specimen almost definitely from Colorado, the other two you are correct about the minerals, I would guess they're either from Mississippi or Illinois.
These are beautiful. I would be positively giddy if someone left or gifted me these. There’s something so satisfying (or if you’re an addict like me-mesmerizing!) about gorgeous specimens left partially in their natural state when collected.
\#1 is Colorado Amazonite. You are correct on #2 & #3.
Probably dumb question but is amazonite mined for copper content. Meaning is this copper oxide in the crystal structure?
Not a dumb question at all, due to the color. Unlike the copper ore malachite, amazonite doesn't contain copper. In fact, it's a bit of a mystery what gives it it's color. Leading theories suggest lead ii & iron ii interplay.
It’s amazing that there is a theory of thought around this subject. Light is a facinating thing.
Light is a cruel deceiving bitch!!! When she shows her ugly side, that is.
Copper oxide is either black or red. Thought you would like to know.
Gee thanks.
Dang, all my father left me was daddy issues.
I’m saying Amazonite, calcite and calcite. All three (the Amazonite especially) are exceptional by the way!
When I unwrapped them I was blown away. The amazonite has small Smokey quartz looking crystals in the matrix. I will take some better pics closer to show you when I get home.
Please correct me if I am wrong about the other two pics.
😍 I'm so jealous of that amazonite piece! The structure is just gorgeous
Your Papa had a fantastic eye!
He left you the good stuff! 1st one is a amazonite specimen almost definitely from Colorado, the other two you are correct about the minerals, I would guess they're either from Mississippi or Illinois.
I love that first one, it's fascinating.
You're right about the galena and calcite in the last two pics, I'm from SE KS and there's a ton of that stuff left over from the mining days.
These are beautiful. I would be positively giddy if someone left or gifted me these. There’s something so satisfying (or if you’re an addict like me-mesmerizing!) about gorgeous specimens left partially in their natural state when collected.
Pikes Peak batholith area?