Chrysocolla replacing Azurite

These flower-like replacements (or pseudomorphs) of azurite (copper hydroxy-carbonate) by chrysocolla (copper silicate with water) were a unique feature of the Dorothy Mine, and are much prized by collectors. Only a small handful of these specimens was saved. From their unusual appearance they have been described as ‘coral or floral gardens’. This specimen was acquired in 1907 as part of the 1500-piece mineral collection of George Smith.

In the late 19th century, mines at Chillagoe, Queensland, were being developed and financiers were headhunting the best mining experts in the country. George took up the challenge and moved to Chillagoe in 1899 as Mine Manager for the Chillagoe Railway and Mining Company. The Company unfortunately soon collapsed and George moved to Sydney. He was appointed the New South Wales Inspector of Mines in 1904. While at Chillagoe, George was able to collect a few outstanding mineral specimens, particularly the unusual flower-like pseudomorphs of chrysocolla replacing azurite from the Dorothy Mine.