Braunite with Calcite

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Braunite is an unusual manganese silicate mineral and one which rarely occurs as obvious crystals. The relatively recent material from the N'Chwaning mines in South Africa turns that on its head and this miniature specimen is a prime example. Comprising white crystallized Calcite matrix it shows numerous, black, thick tabular crystals of Braunite sat upon its surface. The Braunite forms excellent 'chunky' tabular, glossy, black crystals (the largest reaching 1.4 cm on edge and upstanding, allowing it to be viewed from both sides) which contrast nicely with the white Calcite underneath. The Braunite crystals display a distinctive submetallic to resinous lustre. One small area of Braunite is rough, fractured crystals, but around the specimen fine, well-formed crystals are commonplace. The Calcite too, is crystallized, but the crystals are quite rounded, but it is really the dramatic size and perfection in form of the Braunite crystals which make this piece so good. A really fine example of what Braunite crystals can look like. I can well believe that this will be a classic specimen in years to come.