Malachite stalactites (uncommon locale - pre-1998)

Item Description

Mineral specimens from this less well-known extinct open pit copper-cobalt mine are rare compared to those from well-known nearby mines of the Congo Copper Crescent, such as the Star of the Congo, Mashamba West, Shinkolobwe, Kambove or Kamoya mines. Stalactitic malachite from the Luishia MIne has a distinctive habit, unlike other nearby mines. Intergrown sparkly rich green velvet botryoidal malachite stalactites form a very sculptural, curved and unusual looking 360-degree large specimen. Complete all-around and in great shape overall, with only one bruised tip near the top and contacted stalactites on the right side. The Luishia Mine was active from 1913 to 1949 (MINDAT). The piece was undoubtedly recovered by artisanal miners between 1971 and 1997, when the country was called Zaire. It is now known as the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Wikipedia). The label with the piece is incorrect. The Lueshe Mine, North Kivu is a Niobium ore mine (MINDAT). A very fine and rare stalactitic malachite from this obscure extinct Congo locale. Better in person, as the sparkle is more intense under bright light. Quite unique!