Adamite

📍Hilarion Mine, Kamariza Mines, Agios Konstantinos, Lavrion Mining District, Lavreotiki, East Attica, Attica, Greece
Dimensions: 27 / 21 / 8 mm

This is a fine specimen of cuprian adamite from the renowned Hilarion Mine in the Lavrion Mining District of Greece. Measuring 26 mm across, it stands out for its deep, saturated green color, far richer than the more common bluish-green hues typically seen in Hilarion Mine adamite. The intense coloration results from copper ions substituting for zinc within the adamite crystal structure—a defining feature of cuprian adamite that greatly enhances both its visual appeal and collector value.

The piece is composed of densely packed, rounded crystal aggregates forming a bright, sparkling crust of radiating clusters with a classic botryoidal habit. The crystals exhibit excellent luster and color saturation, with only minor contact marks along the edges; overall preservation is superb.

The Hilarion Mine lies within the oxidation zone of polymetallic deposits hosted in ancient marble, known for producing a diverse suite of secondary minerals such as smithsonite, hemimorphite, and aurichalcite. Specimens of cuprian adamite with this level of depth in color, fullness of form, and exceptional condition have become increasingly rare, making this an outstanding example from this historic locality.