Primary Malachite on Quartz

'Primary' Malachite is an unusual mineral, but one which can, as seen here, be stunningly beautiful. The 'Primary' prefix is rarely used for minerals, and is not, as you might expect, used to denote that it has formed in a primary mineralizing environment, as opposed to secondary alteration. Instead, it denotes that most Malachite occurrences are replacements of other minerals, or show forms - like - stalactites - rather devoid of individual discernible crystals. So, it is extremely rare to see Malachite in its own discrete crystals, other than acicular sprays. This rather large miniature to smaller cabinet display specimen is from a recent exceptional find at Mindingi mine in Kambove District, DR Congo, a find that has shown us what a quality mineral Primary Malachite can be. Formed on a bed of Quartz crystals coating chert, are triangular, almost sphenoidal Primary Malachite crystals, many reaching an impressive 1 cm across, semi-translucent deep bottle green to forest green with a glassy to velvety lustre. They form a dense layer almost completely covering the domed display surface, but spaced out just enough for their wonderful form to be fully displayed. The colour, lustre and form of these crystals is exceptional and easily mistaken for Libethenite. This specimen is of the highest level in quality and a wonderfully balanced piece all round.

Unknown Owner

Product details

Species

Malachite, Quartz

SizeSmall Cabinet

Dimensions8.5 x 7.1 x 5.0 cm

Locality

DR Congo, Haut-Katanga, Mindingi Mine

Added on02/02/2025

Comments

Known provenance

2025/08