Chrysocolla pseudomorph after Malachite after Azurite

Item Description

A few years ago these attractive specimens from the Lupoto Mine made a big splash on the market. They subsequently disappeared from the market, and appear to have been a one-time find. They are unique in the sense that I can't remember seen this exact series of replacements from any other locality. 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 pseudomorph phase 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 tiny acicular 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 all of the main crystals are undamaged (the brown spots are not damage, but a bit of overgrown Limonite / Goethite). The largest crystal measures a full 4.4 cm, which is significant for the material as most crystals were not this large. You can see from the photos that this one is eye-catching and aesthetic and it displays wonderfully. A really attractive and good quality specimen of this unique elusive material. If you're a collector of copper minerals, secondary ore minerals or pseudomorphs, this one is certainly worth picking up. Priced at $950 in the inventory.