1.95" Chrysocolla Pseudomorph - Lupoto Mine, DR Congo
This is a vibrant specimen featuring chrysocolla that formed as a pseudomorph after another mineral. It is debated as to whether the mineral that has been replaced was azurite, gypsum, heterogenite, or barite. It was collected from the Lupoto Mine in the Katanga Province of DR Congo.
Chrysocolla is a basic copper silicate that typically forms as a pseudomorph following other copper based minerals. The chemical formula is considered undetermined due to the varying substitutions of elements and water content in its chemical structure. However, there is a form of chrysocolla with an identifiable chemical formula of Cu2H2Si2O5(OH)4 that can be found in microcrystals.
Regularly, chrysocolla will form as botryoidal lumps and spheres, rarely forming visible crystals. It can also form in both solid and fibrous veins, over fibrous minerals, and in crusts. Known for its sharp and vibrant coloring, chrysocolla can display a wide variety of colors such as bluish-green, bright green, light blue, to even sometimes multicolored specimens depending on the atmosphere present during formation.
Regularly, chrysocolla will form as botryoidal lumps and spheres, rarely forming visible crystals. It can also form in both solid and fibrous veins, over fibrous minerals, and in crusts. Known for its sharp and vibrant coloring, chrysocolla can display a wide variety of colors such as bluish-green, bright green, light blue, to even sometimes multicolored specimens depending on the atmosphere present during formation.
$115
SPECIES
Chrysocolla
LOCATION
Lupoto Mine, Katanga, Democratic Republic of Congo
SIZE
1.95 x 1.45"
CATEGORY
ITEM
#280755