For your consideration is this beautiful natural Cobaltoan Smithsonite specimen from the Refugio Mine in Choix, Sinaloa, Mexico. Cobaltoan Smithsonite is a cobalt-bearing variety of smithsonite, a zinc carbonate mineral prized for its attractive lavender-pink coloration. The color develops naturally when cobalt replaces a portion of the zinc within the crystal structure during formation, producing one of the most sought-after colorful varieties of smithsonite.
This specimen displays attractive botryoidal growth composed of rounded, grape-like formations covering a natural purple-gray matrix. The surface exhibits a fine sugary luster that sparkles under light, while the soft lavender-pink color creates beautiful contrast against the host matrix. The combination of color, texture, and crystal habit makes this an eye-catching display specimen from a classic Mexican locality.
Material from the Refugio Mine is highly regarded for its attractive pink to lavender-pink coloration and distinctive botryoidal habit. It is sometimes mislabeled as Pink Calcite or Pink Aragonite, but this specimen is properly identified as Cobaltoan Smithsonite, a cobalt-bearing variety of smithsonite.
This specimen was acquired from the mineral collection of Mr. Joseph Simons, assembled over a lifetime of travel, research, and collecting. Traders Loan and Jewelry is honored to offer a portion of this remarkable collection.
Scientific Information
Cobaltoan Smithsonite is a cobalt-rich variety of smithsonite with the chemical formula (Zn,Co)CO₃. Its pink to lavender-pink coloration results from cobalt substituting for zinc during crystal growth. The Refugio Mine in Choix, Sinaloa, Mexico, is recognized for producing attractive botryoidal specimens with fine crystalline texture and excellent collector appeal.
Measurements & Weight
Approximately 2.35 inches × 2.05 inches × 0.95 inches
Approximately 3.25 ounces (92.14 grams)
Metaphysical Properties
Cobaltoan Smithsonite is associated with the heart chakra and is believed to encourage emotional healing, compassion, self-love, and inner peace. Crystal practitioners value it for promoting emotional balance, reducing stress, encouraging optimism, and supporting personal growth while fostering kindness toward oneself and others.
Condition Report
Natural mineral specimen displaying lavender-pink botryoidal Cobaltoan Smithsonite with a fine sugary luster on a natural purple-gray matrix. Natural mineral inclusions, irregular growth patterns, and formation characteristics are present as formed in nature.
A newly prepared locality label identifying the specimen as Cobaltoan Smithsonite from the Refugio Mine, Choix, Sinaloa, Mexico is included. Displays beautifully with attractive color, texture, and collector appeal.
Safe Handling
This is a natural mineral specimen intended for display and collecting purposes. Handle with reasonable care, wash hands after handling, and avoid creating or inhaling dust from the specimen. Keep out of reach of small children and pets.
Mineral Identification Disclaimer
Every effort has been made to accurately identify and describe this specimen using available reference materials, labels, provenance, and careful visual examination. While I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a professionally trained mineralogist or gemologist, and inadvertent errors in mineral identification, locality attribution, or other descriptive information may occasionally occur.
Collectors are encouraged to carefully review all photographs and use their own knowledge and judgment when evaluating any specimen. If you have any questions or would like additional photographs or information before purchasing, I will be happy to assist. By purchasing this specimen, the buyer acknowledges that the identification and description represent my best good-faith assessment and are not a professional laboratory determination.