Shattuckite after Barite, Shangulowe Mine, Kambove, Haut-Katanga, Democratic Republic of Congo

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a wonderful source of colourful copper minerals like malachite and chrysocolla. A less common prize from the DRC is shattuckite (copper silicate hydroxide) which is very beautiful on its own. Our large example, however, is quite unique as the shattuckite has replaced barite which was originally deposited first. Barite typically forms in bladed crystal aggregates, sometimes quite fine and delicate. A close look at this specimen shows the intricate and blade-like structure that is now composed of bluish shattuckite. Certainly a specimen that tells a story and from a world-class locality. Believed to have been collected pre-1959 according to an earlier label that accompanies the specimen. Ex Brenton Mah, Ex Robert Verdoodt collections. From Shangulowe Mine, Kambove, Haut-Katanga, Democratic Republic of Congo. Dimensions: 3 cm x 9 cm x 10 cm