Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, ca. millions of years ago. This is a lovely natural malachite mineral with unusual bubbly crystalline structures known as botryoidal masses. Malachite is an intense green copper-based mineral which is likely more recognizable as a gemstone - when cut and polished the banding and coloration make for exquisite jewelry. This malachite mass is the raw state as the botryoidal lobes are clustered across the surface - when cut, these stacked bubble layers create the banding rings throughout the stones! Botryoidal comes from the Greek root "botrus," meaning a cluster of grapes. As natural mineral specimens, these structures appear as if they are given a light dusting of shimmering green - certainly surreal! A dreamy and visually striking geological wonder! Size: 6" L x 3.5" W x 4.5" H (15.2 cm x 8.9 cm x 11.4 cm)
Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired prior to 2010
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#163952
Condition
Natural and unpolished specimen. The peripheries are rough where the matrix was cut from the surrounding area. Some active flaking from matrix stones. Small light-colored abrasion to tallest lobe. Great structures and coloration.