Velvet Malachite: A Congo Treasure
Velvet malachite, a stunning variety of malachite, is renowned for its silky, fibrous texture and vibrant green colour. This exquisite mineral is primarily found in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in the Kolwezi mining district of the Lualaba province. The Democratic Republic of Congo is home to some of the world's largest and highest quality malachite deposits.
Malachite forms through the secondary mineralisation of copper deposits. It occurs in the oxidised zones of these deposits, where copper minerals undergo chemical reactions with water and carbon dioxide. This process leads to the formation of malachite, often developing in botryoidal (grapelike) or fibrous masses. The fibrous variety, known as velvet malachite, has a fine, silky texture that resembles green velvet, giving it its name.
AUD $120.00 + shipping
This gorgeous specimen weighs 240 grams