Detailed information
Species
Kolwezite, Cobaltoan Calcite, Goethite
Dimensions
33 x 36 x 24
mm
Weight
47 g
Locality
Mashamba West Mine Kolwezi mining district Lualaba, DR Congo
Condition
No recorded repairs
This miniature-sized, classic, botryoidal aggregate of mid olive-green velvety Kolwezite is not only very rich for this very rare species, but provides a useful association with other species underneath, enabling its paragenetic position to be established. Internally, a core of golden-brown to brown, botryoidal Goethite (iron oxide hydroxide) with a radiating internal structure forms the basis over which a layer of vibrant pink Cobaltoan Calcite crystals developed. Both the Calcite and Goethite can be seen across the base of this specimen and a little pink Cobaltoan Calcite protrudes out from the sides of the Kolwezite which forms a quite substantial puffball-like growth over the top. The velvety surface texture of the Kolwezite is quite delicate and does show a couple of slight scuffs, but overall this is a very fine smaller display of what is an extremely rare species worldwide, with all of its major occurrences located within the Democratic Republic of Congo.