Shattuckite pseudomorph after Dioptase after Calcite (unique!) (ex Shields Flynn Collection)

Item Description

A wonderful thumbnail specimen of these completely one-of-a-kind pseudomorphs from the Tantara Mine in Democratic Republic of the Congo. To the best of my knowledge, only a small number of these specimens exist, all coming from a singular pocket found in 2011. They are very exciting pieces for any collector of pseudomorphs, copper minerals or secondary ore minerals. What makes it truly impressive in my mind is that it is a multi-generational pseudomorph/replacement specimen featuring a stark "royal blue" layer of Shattuckite layer which has replaced preexisting pseudomorphs of Dioptase after Calcite on matrix. The largest crystal measures 5 mm long. You can still see the remarkably sharp, scalenohedral "dog tooth" shape of the underlying Calcite crystals, despite the fact that two other minerals have been deposited over the top of them. Additional green Dioptase and lighter blue Chrysocolla can be seen on the piece for a nice touch. From the collection of Shields Flynn.