Wulfenite with Mimetite

Wulfenite (lead molybdate) displays some of the most vibrant colours in the mineral world, from honey-yellow, orange and red to olive green. It can also display a range of crystal shapes, from thick blocky prisms to thin transparent wafers.

This impressive group of lustrous bright orange, delicate crystals that measure up to 5.5 cm is one of the finest examples of wulfenite from its locality. Reminiscent of toffee or fragile caramel wafers, it looks good enough to eat!

This specimen was originally purchased at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show in the USA by Albert Chapman in 1979 and was immediately offered to the Australian Museum for purchase.

Wulfenite gets its name from Austrian scientist Franz Xavier von Wulfen (1728–1805). The first use of this name dates back to 1845.

Los Lamento, Chihuahua, Mexico. 9 x 6.5 x 3.1 cm. D.50601. Albert Chapman Collection.