Chrysocolla pseudomorph after Malachite after Azurite

Item Description

These pieces were discovered in mid 2010 at the Lupoto Mine in DR Congo, and made a big splash on the market. This was an isolated one-time find, and the pieces quickly disappeared after they were discovered. They are unique in the sense that I can't remember seen this exact series of replacements from any other locality, and they formed showy and fine quality display specimen. Initially these specimens (most presumably) began as prismatic / bladed crystals of Azurite which pseudomorphed into Malachite, but what makes them really interesting is that a SECOND generation of pseudomorphism took place in the form of a deposition of brilliant turquoise blue colored Chrysocolla. Typically we think of Chrysocolla as being non-crystallized / massive, but the Chrysocolla on this specimen has actually formed in thin prismatic CRYSTALS. Under magnification, they are really a sight to see, as one rarely has the opportunity to observe crystallized Chrysocolla. This particular specimen is in wonderful condition compared to the majority of the pieces we've seen, as the majority of crystals are badly undamaged. There is one exposed spot where the underlying Malachite is still visible, which is a nice touch. The largest group measures 3.2 cm, which is significant for the material as most were not this large. You can see from the photos/video that this is an eye-catching and aesthetic and it displays wonderfully. If you're a collector of copper minerals, secondary ore minerals or pseudomorphs, this one is certainly worth picking up.