Pyromorphite / Vanadinite

Touissit is one of the very few localities on earth where all three members of the series of Lead secondary analogues are found (Pyromorphite, Mimetite and Vanadinite). The most common there is the Vanadinite often with high levels of As, the Pyromorphite and Mimetite are much less common. On a few occasions both Pyromorphite and Vanadinite can be determined on the same specimen. This piece has a dense cluster of well-defined crystals up to 7mm and colors ranging from light green through yellow and orange. Zoning is evident too, with grey to brownish caps on some terminations. It seems likely that the zoning is the result of the solid solution series forming composite crystals. In good condition and with attractive form, the crystals are complete with no naked eye visible damage except on one crystal edge on the outside perimeter. This is not seen from most any display angle. The luster is brightest on the tiny crystals and on prism faces, where the larger and terminations are more dull. A very good example of the specie from this important locality, these Pyros are not often available.

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