PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

Stunning Sphenoid Crystalline Malachite Balls on Quartz-Feldspar Matrix

Experience the rarity and beauty of our unique Sphenoid Crystalline Malachite Balls, an extraordinary find not seen in decades. These stunning specimens feature malachite in its distinctive sphenoid crystal habit, beautifully perched on a quartz to feldspar-like matrix. Ideal for cabinet collectors, these specimens are not bulk ore but high-quality collectible material.

Malachite is a captivating green Copper Carbonate Hydroxide mineral, with a chemical composition of Cu₂(CO₃)(OH)₂. Historically, malachite was one of the first ores used to produce copper metal. Our specimens are sourced from the Congo, where extensive mining operations focus on copper extraction, making the acquisition of specimen-grade malachite quite challenging.

The name “Malachite” derives from the ancient term “Molochitus,” used by Pliny the Elder in 79 CE, with the revised spelling becoming widely adopted by 1661. Malachite exhibits a wide range of habits, including botryoidal, silky, and stalactite-like forms. The weight-to-size ratio of these specimens varies depending on material density, with the highly dense banded or flower-patterned material being the most sought after for cutting.

PRODUCT MINERALS 
Copper Carbonate Hydroxide

PRODUCT FEATURES 
Monoclinic, Ball, Crystalline, Rare

PRODUCT COLOUR 
Black, Brown, Green, Grey

MOHS HARDNESS SCALE
3.5 to 4

PRODUCT DATA
Locality = Mindigi Mine, Kambove, Congo
Grade = A Grade
Size = 124 x 60 x 83 mm