Green sphalerite (cleophane) on white matrix – Madan, Bulgaria | Ref. 421

Specimen overview

This fine cleophane from Madan displays numerous crystals distributed across an irregularly shaped white crystalline matrix. Most of the crystals are concentrated on the main face, where they form several closely grouped clusters accompanied by smaller, more widely scattered crystals.

The most developed crystals are well defined and display highly lustrous faces. Their colour appears very dark green to almost black from certain angles, while the lighting reveals olive-green tones along the edges and thinner areas.

The video shows that the crystallisation continues along several edges of the specimen, although it is less abundant than on the main face. The side and rear views therefore reveal a greater proportion of the white matrix.

The contrast between the pale matrix and the dark crystals, combined with their strong lustre, is the main visual feature of this specimen.

Provenance

This cleophane, a variety of sphalerite also known as green blende, comes from Madan, Bulgaria. The specimen was collected in 2007.

Dimensions and presentation

The mineral measures 75 mm in length, 50 mm in width and 56 mm in height.

Weight: 346 g including the stand.

The specimen is displayed on a clear acrylic stand.