SAMPLEITE CRYSTALS
A beaut specimen of bright aqua-blue Sampleite Crystals on matrix. A rough rock with clusters of Sampleite on the surface. This is a favourite Aussie mineral, such an unusual colour and no longer being collected from the location. A must for any Aussie mineral collection.
Dimensions:
11.3cm x 9.6cm x 4.5cm, 485g
Location:
E26 pit, Northparkes Mine, NSW
Sampleite: NaCaCu5(PO4)4Cl · 5H2O
An uncommon mineral in the oxidized zones of copper deposits in arid climates; also occurs as a rare mineral in caves. Named by Cornelius Hurlbut Jr. in honour of Mr. Matt Sample, Mine Superintendent for the Chile Exploration Company in 1921 (on staff as early as 1915) in Chuquicamata, Chile.