Chrysocolla pseudomorph after Malachite after Azurite (ex Irv Brown Collection)

Item Description

These fairly new and eye-catching specimens from the Lupoto Mine made a big splash on the market a few years ago, and then quickly disappeared from the market. They are unique as far as I know in terms of the paragenesis. These specimens started out as bladed crystals of Azurite, which over time pseudomorphed to Malachite and then were replaced AGAIN by a deposition of brilliant turquoise blue colored Chrysocolla. This isn't just a massive coating of Chrysocolla either, as it has formed in tiny acicular crystals, which looks beautiful under magnification. This particular specimen is in great shape compared to most I've seen from the locality as nearly every crystal is undamaged (I can see one broken crystal and a few small imperfections here and there) with the largest "blade" measuring up to 3.0 cm. The piece is very showy and aesthetic and displays wonderfully as you can see from the photos. The back of the piece shows small areas of forest green Malachite that was left over from the initial pseudomorph phase. Great quality all around, and if you collect copper minerals, secondary ore minerals or pseudomorphs, don't miss out on this one. From the worldwide thumbnail / miniature collection of Irv Brown. Valued at $950.