Reference Specimens
Africa (excl. Morocco) - Tsumeb

(para ver esta página en español)

Previous Page Previous Page Next Page Next Page

  Back to the Index of the Reference Specimens Page bottom

Photos by Fabre Minerals. Under Creative Commons license

This page provides a selection of the specimens that have passed through the Fabre Minerals website and, due to their quality,
rarity, or significance as specimens from interesting locations, have been preserved as reference specimens in #MVM

Brandberg area

Quartz (variety amethyst)
Quartz (variety amethyst). Front
Front
Quartz (variety amethyst). Side
Side
 

TXX13AN8: Matrix group of Quartz crystals (amethyst variety), one of them with a clearly dominant scepter growth, transparent, with very good luster and marked color zoning towards the terminations.
We will ship the specimen in its original Perky box from the Robert J. (Bob) Noble collection, which also contains the label.
Goboboseb Mountains, Brandberg area, Erongo Region  Namibia

Specimen size: 2.5 × 1.4 × 1.4 cm = 0.98” × 0.55” × 0.55”

Main crystal size: 2 × 1.1 cm = 0.79” × 0.43”

Former collection of Bob Noble
Quartz (variety amethyst)
 

TMP13AN4: Scepter growth of two transparent Quartz crystals (amethyst variety), with very good luster and distinct color zoning.
We will ship the specimen in its original Perky box from the Robert J. (Bob) Noble collection, which also contains the label.
Goboboseb Mountains, Brandberg area, Erongo Region  Namibia

Specimen size: 2.7 × 1 × 0.8 cm = 1.06” × 0.39” × 0.31”

Former collection of Bob Noble
Quartz (variety amethyst). Quartz (variety amethyst).
Quartz (variety amethyst) with Prehnite, Quartz and Calcite
Quartz (variety amethyst) with Prehnite, Quartz and Calcite. Front
Front
Quartz (variety amethyst) with Prehnite, Quartz and Calcite. Side
Side
Quartz (variety amethyst) with Prehnite, Quartz and Calcite. Quartz (variety amethyst) with Prehnite, Quartz and Calcite.
 

TX71AF0: Very bright Quartz crystal with a very sharply defined amethyst colored phantom and an aesthetic color gradation, clearer near the base and the termination and very intense in the central zone. It is with Prehnite and Calcite and is on matrix, which is very rare with samples from this region. Badly popularized as Brandberg, the true locality is Gobobos, another nearby volcano. The sample was from Charles Key.
Goboboseb Mountains, Brandberg area, Erongo Region  Namibia

Specimen size: 7 × 6.3 × 5.3 cm = 2.76” × 2.48” × 2.09”

Main crystal size: 6.4 × 2.3 cm = 2.52” × 0.91”

Calcite fluorescent short UV

From Charles Key
Quartz (variety amethyst) "phantom"
 

TP27L1: Very sharp and brilliant Amethyst crystal. Specimen shows nice and well defined color zonations that are inside the known “phantom” growths. The terminal rhombohedra faces present the beginning of “window” growths.
Gobobos Volcano, Gobobosebberge  Namibia

Specimen size: 7.6 × 2.3 × 1.8 cm = 2.99” × 0.91” × 0.71”

Quartz (variety amethyst) "phantom". Front
Front
Quartz (variety amethyst) "phantom". Rear
Rear
Quartz (variety amethyst) "phantom". Top
Top
Quartz (variety amethyst) and Epidote
Quartz (variety amethyst) and Epidote.
Quartz (variety amethyst) and Epidote.
 

TD13J5: Magnificent crystal, very well defined and bright with an esthetic graded change of color clearer at the base and deeper on the termination with zoning. An important aspect is that it is on matrix, which is very rare with samples from this region. Even it had (badly) been popularized as Brandberg, the true locality is Gobobos, another nearest volcano.
The specimen is from the Charlie Key collection.
Gobobos Volcano, Gobobosebberge  Namibia

Specimen size: 10.3 × 7 × 3.8 cm = 4.06” × 2.76” × 1.50”

Main crystal size: 7.4 × 1.9 cm = 2.91” × 0.75”

Prehnite
 

MH14AM7: Group of Prehnite crystals, one of them clearly dominant, with better defined faces and edges than usual for the species, on matrix, transparent, with good luster and an intense green color.
We will ship the specimen in its original Perky box from the Robert J. (Bob) Noble collection, which also contains the label, which indicates that it was in the Melanson collection.
Goboboseb Mountains, Brandberg area, Erongo Region  Namibia

Specimen size: 2 × 2 × 1.7 cm = 0.79” × 0.79” × 0.67”

Main crystal size: 1.7 × 1.4 cm = 0.67” × 0.55”

Former collection of Bob Noble
Prehnite. Prehnite.
Prehnite with Quartz
Prehnite with Quartz. Prehnite with Quartz.
 

TX6AL4: Group of Prehnite crystals that partially cover a water-clear Quartz crystal. The Prehnite crystals, more individualized than usual for the species, with defined faces and edges, are translucent, shiny, and have a uniform pale green color.
We will send the specimen in its original Perky box from the Robert J. Noble collection, which also contains the label.
Goboboseb Mountains, Brandberg area, Erongo Region  Namibia

Specimen size: 3.6 × 1.5 × 1.1 cm = 1.42” × 0.59” × 0.43”

Former collection of Bob Noble
Prehnite
Prehnite  

MB99AL5: Druze on matrix of Prehnite crystals with polycrystalline growths, translucent, bright and with a vivid and uniform green color. The specimen comes from the Claus Hedegaard collection, whose label we will send to the buyer.
Goboboseb Mountains, Brandberg area, Erongo Region  Namibia

Specimen size: 11.8 × 10.9 × 2.4 cm = 4.65” × 4.29” × 0.94”

Former collection of Claus Hedegaard
Prehnite. Prehnite.
Prehnite
Prehnite. Prehnite.
 

EA67Y0: Aggregate of crystals with polycrystalline growths and very well defined forms. They are translucent, bright and have a very intense and uniform color. The sample has the usual high quality of the good Brandberg Prehnite, but its size is bigger than usual.
Goboboseb Mountains, Brandberg area, Erongo Region  Namibia

Specimen size: 12.5 × 11.5 × 3.5 cm = 4.92” × 4.53” × 1.38”

Former collection of Claus Hedegaard

Niger

Quartz (variety amethyst)

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

EJK46AO9: Obtained at Ste. Marie 2022
Group of Quartz crystals with scepter-shaped growths and very sharp crystal forms, with a relatively short prism, translucent and with a violet color with different shades depending on the area of the crystal, with inclusions. On matrix, edged by small crystals of white Quartz. The specimen comes from a find made in a locality virtually unknown to date.
Berjé, Aïr Massif, Agadez Region  Niger (08/2021)

Specimen size: 5.7 × 5.2 × 3.5 cm = 2.24” × 2.05” × 1.38”

Main crystal size: 4.6 × 2.8 cm = 1.81” × 1.10”

Quartz (variety amethyst). Front
Front
Quartz (variety amethyst). Side
Side
Quartz (variety amethyst). Rear
Rear
Quartz (variety amethyst)
Quartz (variety amethyst). Front
Front
Quartz (variety amethyst). Side
Side
Quartz (variety amethyst). Rear
Rear

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

EFM47AO9: Obtained at Ste. Marie 2022
Group of Quartz crystals, one of them clearly dominant, with very sharp crystal forms, with a relatively short prism, translucent and with a very deep intense violet color, on a base of white Quartz. The specimen comes from a find made in a locality practically unknown to date.
Berjé, Aïr Massif, Agadez Region  Niger (08/2021)

Specimen size: 8.2 × 5.2 × 4.6 cm = 3.23” × 2.05” × 1.81”

Quartz (variety amethyst)

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

ETX69AO9: Obtained at Ste. Marie 2022
Group of Quartz crystals with very sharp crystal forms, with relatively short prism faces, translucent, with an intense and deep violet color in the pyramidal areas and lighter in the prism. On matrix, with white Quartz crystals of smaller size. The specimen comes from a find made in a locality practically
unknown to date.
This sample has been referenced and pictured, as a novelty in Ste. Marie 2022, in the magazine 'Le Règne Minéral' number 166, July-August 2022, page 47
Berjé, Aïr Massif, Agadez Region  Niger (08/2021)

Specimen size: 12.6 × 9.3 × 7.3 cm = 4.96” × 3.66” × 2.87”

Main crystal size: 4.3 × 4 cm = 1.69” × 1.57”

Quartz (variety amethyst). Quartz (variety amethyst).
Quartz (variety amethyst)
Quartz (variety amethyst). Front
Front
Quartz (variety amethyst). Side
Side
Quartz (variety amethyst).

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

ERB72AO9: Obtained at Ste. Marie 2022
Group of Quartz crystals with very sharp crystal forms, with scepter growths, with a relatively short prism, translucent and with an intense deep violet color. The specimen comes from a find made in a locality practically unknown to date.
Berjé, Aïr Massif, Agadez Region  Niger (08/2021)

Specimen size: 14.2 × 12.3 × 8.6 cm = 5.59” × 4.84” × 3.39”

Main crystal size: 5.3 × 5.3 cm = 2.09” × 2.09”

Beryl (variety emerald)

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

EBM37AO7: New discovery at Ste. Marie 2022, new locality for Beryl (variety emerald)
As explained in emeralds of Niger, although their color is not intense, the presence of Cr and V accredits them as emeralds. In its favor its transparency and good crystallographic forms and being a previously unknown locality.
Taraouadji Mountains, Aïr Massif, Agadez Region  Niger (04/2022)

Specimen size: 1.4 × 0.6 × 0.5 cm = 0.55” × 0.24” × 0.20”

Weight: 1 grams
Beryl (variety emerald). Front
Front
Beryl (variety emerald). Rear
Rear
Beryl (variety emerald)
Beryl (variety emerald). Front
Front
Beryl (variety emerald). Rear
Rear

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

EFT51AO7: New discovery at Ste. Marie 2022, new locality for Beryl (variety emerald)
As explained in emeralds of Niger, although their color is not intense, the presence of Cr and V accredits them as emeralds. In its favor its transparency and good crystallographic forms and being a previously unknown locality.
This specimen has been photographed and published as a novelty at the 2022 Sainte-Marie Show in the magazine ‘Lapis‘ number 7-8/2022, page 71, and the magazine 'Le Règne Minéral' number 166, July-August 2022, page 47
Taraouadji Mountains, Aïr Massif, Agadez Region  Niger (04/2022)

Specimen size: 1.5 × 1 × 0.9 cm = 0.59” × 0.39” × 0.35”

Weight: 2.1 grams
Beryl (variety emerald)

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

EFM88AO7: New discovery at Ste. Marie 2022, new locality for Beryl (variety emerald)
As explained in emeralds of Niger, although their color is not intense, the presence of Cr and V accredits them as emeralds. In its favor its transparency and good crystallographic forms and being a previously unknown locality.
This sample has been referenced and pictured, as a novelty in Ste. Marie 2022, in the magazine 'Le Règne Minéral' number 166, July-August 2022, page 47
Taraouadji Mountains, Aïr Massif, Agadez Region  Niger (04/2022)

Specimen size: 1.6 × 0.8 × 0.6 cm = 0.63” × 0.31” × 0.24”

Weight: 1.5 grams
Beryl (variety emerald). Front
Front
Beryl (variety emerald). Rear
Rear
Beryl (variety emerald)
Beryl (variety emerald). Front
Front
Beryl (variety emerald). Rear
Rear

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

ELB51AO7: New discovery at Ste. Marie 2022, new locality for Beryl (variety emerald)
As explained in emeralds of Niger, although their color is not intense, the presence of Cr and V accredits them as emeralds. In its favor its transparency and good crystallographic forms and being a previously unknown locality.
This sample has been referenced and pictured, as a novelty in Ste. Marie 2022, in the magazine 'Le Règne Minéral' number 166, July-August 2022, page 47
Taraouadji Mountains, Aïr Massif, Agadez Region  Niger (04/2022)

Specimen size: 2.4 × 0.7 × 0.5 cm = 0.94” × 0.28” × 0.20”

Weight: 1.6 grams

Nigeria

Topaz
Topaz  

CBC66CD4: Prismatic crystal very rich in faces on its terminations, twinned, water-clear and doubly terminated and of a delicate, very slightly bluish tone with a touch of green. With some apparent dissolution forms, a product of the very high temperature corrosive solutions that are typical of the formation processes of this type of specimen.
The specimen comes from the collection of duplicates of Carles Curto (no. 1984.52) whose labels, both physical and digital, we will send to the buyer.
Ropp Tin Mines, Bukuru, Jos Plateau, Ropp District, Plateau State  Nigeria (+1981)

Specimen size: 3.5 × 2 × 1.6 cm = 1.38” × 0.79” × 0.63”

Former collection of Carles Curto (duplicates)

Recorded under neon light
Beryl (variety emerald)
Beryl (variety emerald). Front
Front
Beryl (variety emerald). Side
Side
Beryl (variety emerald). Top
Top
Beryl (variety emerald). Bottom
Bottom

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

MA87AJ1: Doubly terminated crystal with two different terminations, one of them polycrystalline, with pyramidal faces, and the opposite flat and slightly rough. The crystal is very transparent and bright, has an excellent color of the best quality for the locality.
Jos Plateau, Ropp District, Plateau State  Nigeria

Specimen size: 5.7 × 1.2 × 0.8 cm = 2.24” × 0.47” × 0.31”

Fluorite (dichroic) with Quartz

Recorded under neon light
 

MXF99CD1: Much deserves to be said about this piece, but the Mineralogical Record magazine's website has already done so, in its section "What’s New on the Internet Reports”, vol. 68, December 2023, page 9, and also, and very extensively, the magazines Lapis on page 37 of its 12/2023 edition, and Le Règne Minéral, no. 174/2023, page 26.
These dichroic fluorites from Nigeria have been seen at different shows throughout the year, but until now no specimens of significant quality had appeared. Are we going to see many more specimens of this quality? Is this piece, so perfect, going to be an exception? Impossible to know that now, but surely the year 2024 will show us whether this piece is a unique case or not. The only thing that is certain is that it is a very pretty Fluorite, whatever happens later with specimens from this locality.
Mina Jalingo, higher level, Mambilla Plateau, Taraba State  Nigeria (2023)

Specimen size: 10.9 × 7.4 × 3.9 cm = 4.29” × 2.91” × 1.54”

Main crystal size: 3.3 × 3 cm = 1.30” × 1.18”

Fluorite (dichroic) with Quartz. natural light
natural light
Fluorite (dichroic) with Quartz. incandescent light
incandescent light

Republic of the Congo

Cerussite (twinned)
Cerussite (twinned). Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén

Fluorescent light (daylight)
Cerussite (twinned)
 

XM2290MEE: V-shaped twin of sharp and lustrous Cerussite crystals, with polycrystalline terminations and remnants of a matrix formed of iron oxides. It comes from a Congolese mining district which produces lead, zinc and, to a lesser extent, copper.


M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the (2022)

Specimen size: 5.6 × 3.9 × 2.8 cm = 2.20” × 1.54” × 1.10”

Main crystal size: 5.1 × 2.7 cm = 2.01” × 1.06”

Cerussite (twinned)

Fluorescent light (daylight)
Cerussite (twinned)
 

XM2230MLM: Group of Cerussite crystals, one of them clearly dominant, twinned, very sharp and lustrous, between transparent and translucent, with external staining and iron oxide inclusions.
It comes from a Congolese mining district which produces lead, zinc and, to a lesser extent, copper.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the (2022)

Specimen size: 6.7 × 2.8 × 2.2 cm = 2.64” × 1.10” × 0.87”

Cerussite (twinned).
Dioptase with Wulfenite coated by Pyromorphite
Dioptase with Wulfenite coated by Pyromorphite. Dioptase with Wulfenite coated by Pyromorphite.

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

TPA99AP2: Druse of very lustrous equant crystals of Dioptase, with a very vivid color and with lamellar crystals of Wulfenite with coatings of Pyromorphite microcrystals.
The Pyromorphite has been analyzed and the results were a surprise because until now these coatings had been called Cerussite! We will send a copy of the analysis to the buyer.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 6 × 4.6 × 4.4  cm = 2.36” × 1.81” × 1.73”

Main crystal size: 1 × 0.7 cm = 0.39” × 0.28”

Analyzed
Dioptase with Quartz and Cerussite

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

MFB86AP3: Dioptase crystals, in groups and isolated, some of them doubly terminated, very lustrous and in matrix, on slightly smoky Quartz crystals and partially covered by brown Cerussite crystals, distinctive of the locality.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the (2022)

Specimen size: 7.4 × 5.2 × 4.8 cm = 2.91” × 2.05” × 1.89”

Main crystal size: 1.1 × 0.5 cm = 0.43” × 0.20”

Dioptase with Quartz and Cerussite. Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Dioptase with Quartz and Cerussite. Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Dioptase with Quartz and Cerussite. Detail / Foto: Joaquim Callén
Detail / Foto: Joaquim Callén
Dioptase with Quartz and Cerussite. Detail / Foto: Joaquim Callén
Detail / Foto: Joaquim Callén
Hemimorphite
Hemimorphite. Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Hemimorphite. Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

TBM98AP2: Druse, on matrix, of Hemimorphite crystals with recognizable crystal shapes, translucent and pale blue. From a classic locality, but one with few quality specimens.
This specimen comes from the collection of D. Colin, whose label we will send to the buyer.
M'Fouati Mine, M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 11.4 × 9.7 × 7.4 cm = 4.49” × 3.82” × 2.91”

Pyromorphite
 

TY14AN1: Group of Pyromorphite crystals with sharp crystal forms, many of them doubly terminated, lustrous and bi-colored, with areas of orange crystals and others with an intense and uniform greenish yellow color. From a very classic locality, but from which few quality Pyromorphite specimens are found.
This specimen is from the Pierre Vincent collection.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the (±1970)

Specimen size: 1.8 × 1.6 × 1.4 cm = 0.71” × 0.63” × 0.55”

Main crystal size: 0.6 × 0.3 cm = 0.24” × 0.12”

Fluorescence short UV & minor fluorescence long UV

Former collection of Pierre Vincent
Pyromorphite. Front
Front
Pyromorphite. Rear
Rear
Pyromorphite
Pyromorphite. Front
Front
Pyromorphite. Rear
Rear
Pyromorphite.
 

TE26AN1: Floater group of Pyromorphite crystals with sharp crystal forms, many of them doubly terminated, very lustrous and bi-colored, with areas of orange crystals and others with an intense and uniform greenish yellow color. From a very classic locality, but from which few quality Pyromorphite specimens are found.
The specimen is from the Pierre Vincent collection.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the (±1970)

Specimen size: 2.4 × 2.3 × 1.8 cm = 0.94” × 0.91” × 0.71”

Main crystal size: 0.4 × 0.2 cm = 0.16” × 0.08”

Fluorescence short UV & minor fluorescence long UV

Former collection of Pierre Vincent
Pyromorphite
 

TD16AN1: Floater group of Pyromorphite crystals with sharp crystal forms, many of them doubly terminated, very lustrous and bi-colored, with areas of orange crystals and others with an intense and uniform greenish yellow color. From a very classic locality, but from which few quality Pyromorphite specimens are found.
The specimen is from the Pierre Vincent collection.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the (±1970)

Specimen size: 3.6 × 2.7 × 2.4 cm = 1.42” × 1.06” × 0.94”

Main crystal size: 0.4 × 0.2 cm = 0.16” × 0.08”

Fluorescence short UV & minor fluorescence long UV

Former collection of Pierre Vincent
Pyromorphite. Pyromorphite.
Pyromorphite
Pyromorphite. Pyromorphite.
 

TF14AN1: Floater group of Pyromorphite crystals with sharp crystal forms, many of them doubly terminated, very lustrous and bi-colored, with areas of orange crystals and others with an intense and uniform greenish yellow color. From a very classic locality, but from which few quality Pyromorphite specimens are found.
The specimen is from the Pierre Vincent collection.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the (±1970)

Specimen size: 3.7 × 2.4 × 1.3 cm = 1.46” × 0.94” × 0.51”

Main crystal size: 0.7 × 0.4 cm = 0.28” × 0.16”

Fluorescence short UV & minor fluorescence long UV

Former collection of Pierre Vincent
Pyromorphite
 

TJ13AN1: Group, on matrix, of Pyromorphite crystals with sharp crystal forms, many of them doubly terminated, with very bright luster and an intense and uniform green color. From a very classic locality, but from which few quality Pyromorphite specimens have been found.
The specimen is from the Pierre Vincent collection.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the (±1970)

Specimen size: 3.7 × 2.4 × 1.7  cm = 1.46” × 0.94” × 0.67”

Main crystal size: 0.3 × 0.2 cm = 0.12” × 0.08”

Fluorescence short UV & minor fluorescence long UV

Former collection of Pierre Vincent
Pyromorphite. Front
Front
Pyromorphite. Rear
Rear
Pyromorphite.
Pyromorphite
Pyromorphite. Front
Front
Pyromorphite. Side
Side
Pyromorphite. Pyromorphite.

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

EYB67AP1: Druse of Pyromorphite crystals with sharp crystal forms, curvatures on faces and edges, some of them doubly terminated, lustrous, and light green with some areas of darker shades.
Very good quality for this classic Congolese locality where good specimens of Pyromorphite are rare.
M'Fouati Mine, M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the (±1970)

Specimen size: 7.2 × 6.6 × 1.4 cm = 2.83” × 2.60” × 0.55”

Main crystal size: 0.4 × 0.2 cm = 0.16” × 0.08”

Minor fluorescence short UV
Quartz with Wulfenite

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

EF87AM4: Group of Wulfenite crystals, two of them large and clearly dominant, covered almost entirely by white microcrystalline Quartz. From one of the great classical deposits for Wulfenite.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 5.6 × 4.9 × 4.3 cm = 2.20” × 1.93” × 1.69”

Main crystal size: 5.9 × 4.9 cm = 2.32” × 1.93”

Minor fluorescence long & short UV
Quartz with Wulfenite. Front
Front
Quartz with Wulfenite. Side
Side
Quartz with Wulfenite. Rear
Rear
Smithsonite
Smithsonite. Front
Front
Smithsonite. Side
Side
Smithsonite.
 

TM51AM9: Spheroidal growths of Smithsonite, on matrix, of an intense pink color, and with recrystallized areas in a second generation of white color. The specimen comes from a very classic locality, although very few specimens of Smithsonite of this quality are found and only as old specimens like this one.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the (±1970)

Specimen size: 9 × 8.1 × 4.4 cm = 3.54” × 3.19” × 1.73”

Wulfenite
 

MK66AJ1: Floater group with two complete and very sharp Wulfenite crystals that are translucent, with inclusions, and with a very intense orange color. An excellent miniature from a locality considered as a classic for the species.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 2 × 2 × 0.5 cm = 0.79” × 0.79” × 0.20”

Main crystal size: 1.5 × 1.4 cm = 0.59” × 0.55”

Wulfenite.
Wulfenite
Wulfenite. Wulfenite.
Wulfenite  

MJ66AJ3: Group of very sharp crystals, one of them clearly dominant, with polycrystalline growths and dominant pyramidal faces. They are translucent, bright and with a very deep orange color. The sample is from a locality that is a classic for Wulfenite but where good samples are very scarce.
From the Thomas P. Moore collection whose label we will send to the buyer.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 2.3 × 1.9 × 1 cm = 0.91” × 0.75” × 0.39”

Former collection of Thomas P. Moore
Wulfenite
 

MF48AA9: Aggregate of crystals of a considerable size for the locality and with very well defined faces and edges. They are translucent and have a yellow color with orange shades. It is from a very well known locality but which very few Wulfenite samples of good quality are preserved.
M'Fouati, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 3.9 × 3.2 × 2.4 cm = 1.54” × 1.26” × 0.94”

Former collection Caroline Martaud (Wulfenites)
Wulfenite. Front
Front
Wulfenite. Rear
Rear
Veszelyite with Hemimorphite


 

MTR47CD3: Classic example of secondary mineralization with elements such as Cu and Zn, formed by supergene alteration. On a rock matrix covered by botryoidal Hemimorphite crystals of a uniform bluish green color, aggregates of very lustrous crystals of a much deeper blue tone, almost electric-blue, of Veszelyite, a rare copper-zinc phosphate, have been deposited.
In this case they exhibit good definition of the crystals, which is not very common in specimens from this find.
Palabanda, M'Fouati District, Bouenza Department, Bouenza Region  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 7 × 4.3 × 3.1 cm = 2.76” × 1.69” × 1.22”

Main crystal size: 1.1 × 0.5 cm = 0.43” × 0.20”

Gold

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

ERA97AN5: Gold that shows very sharp crystal forms of pre-existing Quartz crystal molds on its front face. The piece has a considerable size and excellent brilliance and color.
The specimen was collected between 1968 and 1974 by Pierre Vincent and was in his collection.
Niari Valley area, Niari Department  Congo, Republic of the (1968-1974)

Specimen size: 3.3 × 2.6 × 1 cm = 1.30” × 1.02” × 0.39”

Former collection of Pierre Vincent

Weight: 21.9 grams
Gold. Front
Front
Gold. Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Gold. Rear
Rear
Gold. Rear / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Rear / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Dioptase
Dioptase. Front
Front
Dioptase. Side
Side
 

ML6AM8: Group of translucent and lustrous Dioptase crystals, one of them clearly dominant and of a considerable size.
We will send the buyer the specimen in its original Perky box from the Robert J. Noble collection, which also contains the label.
This sample has been noted and photographed in the article 'Renéville' of the ‘Mineralogical Record‘ magazine on page 426 in the volume 55, number 4, July-August 2024
Indus Mine; Renéville Mine, Renéville, Kindanba District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 2.4 × 1.8 × 1.3 cm = 0.94” × 0.71” × 0.51”

Former collection of Bob Noble
Dioptase
 

TTB46AN8: Aggregate of prismatic Dioptase crystals of considerable size for the species, on matrix, with acute rhombohedral terminations, translucent, with very bright luster and a deep color with irregular color zoning.
We will ship the specimen in its original Perky box from the Robert J. (Bob) Noble collection, which also contains the label stating that it was previously in the Sullivan collection.
Indus Mine; Renéville Mine, Renéville, Kindanba District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 3.4 × 2.4 × 2.1 cm = 1.34” × 0.94” × 0.83”

Main crystal size: 1.1 × 0.6 cm = 0.43” × 0.24”

Former collection of Bob Noble
Dioptase. Dioptase.
Dioptase
Dioptase. Dioptase.
 

TTP16AN3: Floater group of very sharp Dioptase crystals, some of them doubly terminated, with the dominant forms of an elongated prism and an acute terminal rhombohedron. Translucent, with bright luster and a particularly intense color.
We will ship the specimen in its original Perky box from the Robert J. Noble collection, which also contains the label.
'Mbumba, Pimbi Hill, Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 2.2 × 1.4 × 1.5 cm = 0.87” × 0.55” × 0.59”

Main crystal size: 1.4 × 0.5 cm = 0.55” × 0.20”

Former collection of Bob Noble
Dioptase
 

MK36AM8: Group on matrix of elongated Dioptase crystals, between translucent and transparent and very lustrous.
We will send the buyer the specimen in its original Perky box from the Robert J. Noble collection, which also contains the label.
'Mbumba, Pimbi Hill, Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 2.3 × 1.7 × 0.8 cm = 0.91” × 0.67” × 0.31”

Main crystal size: 0.5 × 0.2 cm = 0.20” × 0.08”

Former collection of Bob Noble
Dioptase. Dioptase.
Dioptase
Dioptase.
 

LR88AK2: Group of very sharp crystals, some of them partially doubly terminated, of good size, brilliant, with very deep color and partially covered by a second generation of small crystals of the same mineral Dioptase. The sample is from the Philippe Morelon collection (No. 805), whose catalogue entry we will send to the buyer.
'Mbumba, Pimbi Hill, Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the (2011)

Specimen size: 4.5 × 3.6 × 2.9 cm = 1.77” × 1.42” × 1.14”

Main crystal size: 2.5 × 1.2 cm = 0.98” × 0.47”

Former collection of Philippe Morelon
Dioptase

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

TRX27AP9: Group of Dioptase crystals on matrix, one of them clearly dominant, with a prismatic habit and the terminations of an acute rhombohedron. Very lustrous, with very deep color.
Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 3.3 × 2.5 × 2.1 cm = 1.30” × 0.98” × 0.83”

Main crystal size: 1.5 × 1.2 cm = 0.59” × 0.47”

Dioptase.
Dioptase with Duftite
Dioptase with Duftite. Dioptase with Duftite.
Dioptase with Duftite.

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

TFB92AN5: Coatings of equant Dioptase crystals in circular holes in a curious matrix. The crystals are very lustrous, with a very deep green color, associated with small, very sharp isolated crystals of Duftite.
Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 5.8 × 5.3 × 2.8 cm = 2.28” × 2.09” × 1.10”

Main crystal size: 0.2 × 0.2 cm = 0.08” × 0.08”

Dioptase with Mimetite

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

TBM99AP2: Very sharp Dioptase crystals, many of them doubly terminated, translucent, with a bright luster and very deep color and implanted on a matrix covered with microcrystals of yellow Mimetite. This specimen was collected by Pierre Vincent and was in his collection
The Mimetite has been analyzed and we will send a copy of the analysis to the buyer.
Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the (±1970)

Specimen size: 5.9 × 4.9 × 2.3 cm = 2.32” × 1.93” × 0.91”

Main crystal size: 0.8 × 0.3 cm = 0.31” × 0.12”

Analyzed

Former collection of Pierre Vincent
Dioptase with Mimetite. Dioptase with Mimetite.
Dioptase
Dioptase. Front
Front
Dioptase. Side
Side
Dioptase.

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

TXX97AP9: Group of Dioptase crystals on matrix, one of them clearly dominant, with a prismatic habit and acute rhombohedral terminations. Very lustrous, with very deep color.
Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 6.1 × 4.1 × 2.5 cm = 2.40” × 1.61” × 0.98”

Main crystal size: 2.2 × 1.2 cm = 0.87” × 0.47”

Dioptase

Fluorescent light (daylight)
Dioptase
 

SV2260TPH: Group of profiled Dioptase crystals, with the dominant forms of the short prism and flattened terminal rhombohedron, on matrix, translucent, with good luster and an intense and uniform green color, of considerable dimensions for the species.
  

Specimen size: 6.7 × 5.6 × 5.3 cm = 2.64” × 2.20” × 2.09”

Main crystal size: 1.8 × 1.1 cm = 0.71” × 0.43”

Dioptase. Dioptase.
Dioptase
Dioptase. Dioptase.
Dioptase.
 

TR93AF6: Druse of rhombohedral crystals with very well defined faces and edges, extraordinarily bright and on matrix.
The sample is from the Vallecillo collection, Madrid.
Renéville, Kindanba District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 7.2 × 5 × 2.5 cm = 2.83” × 1.97” × 0.98”

Main crystal size: 1.6 × 1.4 cm = 0.63” × 0.55”

Former collection of José Luis Vallecillo
Dioptase with Plancheite
 

MC87AN0: Growth of very sharp and lustrous crystals of Dioptase partially covered by globular growths of sky-blue Plancheite.
Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 7.4 × 4.8 × 4.4 cm = 2.91” × 1.89” × 1.73”

Main crystal size: 1 × 0.9 cm = 0.39” × 0.35”

Dioptase with Plancheite. Dioptase with Plancheite.
Dioptase with Chrysocolla
Dioptase with Chrysocolla. Front
Front
Dioptase with Chrysocolla. Side
Side
Dioptase with Chrysocolla. Dioptase with Chrysocolla.

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

MB36AL4: Group of highly profiled, translucent and brilliant Dioptase crystals, on matrix and with pale blue-green Chrysocolla. Excellent specimen, classic and very aesthetic.
Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 10.5 × 5.4 × 6.9 cm = 4.13” × 2.13” × 2.72”

Main crystal size: 1.4 × 0.4 cm = 0.55” × 0.16”

Wulfenite with Quartz
 

MA69AA9: Two isolated Wulfenite crystals, one of them clearly dominant, translucent, with an intense orange color and partially coated and fringed by Quartz crystals, also present on the rocky matrix. Excellent quality for the locality.
Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the (2012)

Specimen size: 6.2 × 5.4 × 3 cm = 2.44” × 2.13” × 1.18”

Main crystal size: 1.5 × 1.1 cm = 0.59” × 0.43”

Former collection Caroline Martaud (Wulfenites)
Wulfenite with Quartz. Wulfenite with Quartz.
Wulfenite with Quartz.
Chalcocite with Malachite
Chalcocite with Malachite. Front
Front
Chalcocite with Malachite. Rear
Rear
 

ERT26AN4: New discovery: very aerial floater group of platy Chalcocite crystals with a very sharp pseudo-hexagonal outline, very lustrous, and with fine coatings of Malachite.
The specimen comes from new workings in the M'Passa area where a group of small mines yielded, in a glorious past, specimens with large sharp crystals. With the closure of the workings in the 1980s, that glory was lost, but fortunately it has now returned with specimens as magnificent as those and, moreover, with a great variety of crystallographic habits.
M'Passa Mines, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the (2021)

Specimen size: 2.5 × 1.6 × 1.2 cm = 0.98” × 0.63” × 0.47”

Main crystal size: 0.8 × 0.8 cm = 0.31” × 0.31”

Chalcocite with Malachite
 

ERV37AN4: New discovery: very aerial floater group of platy Chalcocite crystals with a sharp pseudo-hexagonal outline and with fine coatings of Malachite.
The specimen comes from new workings in the M'Passa area where a group of small mines produced, in a glorious past, specimens with large sharp crystals. With the cessation of exploitation in the 1980s that glory was lost, but fortunately it has now returned with specimens as magnificent as those and, moreover, with a great variety of crystallographic habits.
This specimen has been published on the Mineralogical Record´s web page, in the 'What's New' section, report 61, August 30, 2021 edition, page 10
M'Passa Mines, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the (2021)

Specimen size: 3.1 × 2 × 1.3 cm = 1.22” × 0.79” × 0.51”

Main crystal size: 0.8 × 0.7 cm = 0.31” × 0.28”

Chalcocite with Malachite. Front
Front
Chalcocite with Malachite. Rear
Rear
Chalcocite
Chalcocite. Front
Front
Chalcocite. Rear
Rear
Chalcocite.

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

EFA16AN4: New discovery: very aerial floater group of Chalcocite crystals between platy and tabular, very sharp, with a pseudo-hexagonal outline and great luster.
The specimen, of high quality for the species, comes from new workings in the M'Passa area where a group of small mines used to yield, in their glorious past, specimens with big sharp crystals. With the closure of the workings in the 1980s, that glory was lost, although fortunately it has now returned with specimens as magnificent as those and, moreover, with a great variety of crystallographic habits.
M'Passa Mines, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the (2021)

Specimen size: 5.2 × 4.3 × 3.5 cm = 2.05” × 1.69” × 1.38”

Chalcocite

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

EGR46AN4: New discovery: very aerial floater group of very sharp platy crystals of Chalcocite, with a pseudo-hexagonal outline, lustrous, with parallel and polycrystalline growths.
The specimen, of high quality for the species, comes from new workings in the M'Passa area where a group of small mines used to yield, in their glorious past, specimens with big sharp crystals. With the cessation of exploitation in the 1980s, that glory was lost, but fortunately it has now returned with specimens as magnificent as those and, moreover, with a great variety of crystallographic habits.
M'Passa Mines, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the (2021)

Specimen size: 5.5 × 5.2 × 3.1 cm = 2.17” × 2.05” × 1.22”

Chalcocite. Front
Front
Chalcocite. Side / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Side / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Chalcocite
Chalcocite. Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Chalcocite. Rear / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Rear / Photo: Joaquim Callén

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

ERB96AN4: New discovery: very aerial group of Chalcocite crystals, huge for the species, between platy and tabular, very sharp, with a pseudo-hexagonal outline and great luster.
This specimen, of high quality for the species, comes from new workings in the M'Passa area where a group of small mines used to produce, in their glorious past, specimens with large sharp crystals. With the closure of the workings in the 1980s, that glory was lost, although fortunately it has now returned with specimens as magnificent as those and, moreover, with a great variety of crystallographic habits.
This specimen has been published on the Mineralogical Record´s web page, in the 'What's New' section, report 61, August 30, 2021 edition, page 10
M'Passa Mines, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the (2021)

Specimen size: 6.6 × 5 × 1.2 cm = 2.60” × 1.97” × 0.47”

Dioptase

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

TXX47AP9: Group of Dioptase crystals on matrix, with a prismatic habit and the terminations of an acute rhombohedron. Very lustrous, with very deep color.
Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 3.4 × 3 × 2.4 cm = 1.34” × 1.18” × 0.94”

Main crystal size: 2.7 × 2.1 cm = 1.06” × 0.83”

Dioptase.
Dioptase
Dioptase. Dioptase.

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

TJB67AP9: Group of Dioptase crystals on matrix, with a prismatic habit and the terminations of an acute rhombohedron. Very lustrous, with very deep color.
Mindouli, Mindouli District, Pool Department  Congo, Republic of the

Specimen size: 4.2 × 2.9 × 2.1 cm = 1.65” × 1.14” × 0.83”

Main crystal size: 1.1 × 0.8 cm = 0.43” × 0.31”

Dioptase on Plancheite

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

MFB98AP3: Group of Dioptase crystals, most of them doubly terminated, more elongated than usual in the species and extraordinarily lustrous, on matrix, with deep blue Plancheite. The specimen comes from a very little known locality.
The Plancheite has been analyzed and we will send a copy of the analysis to the buyer.
Ngouedi mission village, Loutete, Mouyondzi District, Bouenza Department  Congo, Republic of the (2022)

Specimen size: 3.7 × 3.6 × 3.2 cm = 1.46” × 1.42” × 1.26”

Main crystal size: 1.6 × 0.9 cm = 0.63” × 0.35”

Analyzed
Dioptase on Plancheite. Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Dioptase on Plancheite. Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Dioptase on Plancheite
Dioptase on Plancheite. Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Dioptase on Plancheite. Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

MLT47AP3: Group of Dioptase crystals, most of them doubly terminated, more elongated than usual in the species, and extraordinarily lustrous, on matrix, with deep blue Plancheite. The specimen comes from a very little known locality.
The Plancheite has been analyzed and we will send a copy of the analysis to the buyer.
Ngouedi mission village, Loutete, Mouyondzi District, Bouenza Department  Congo, Republic of the (2022)

Specimen size: 5.8 × 3.2 × 2.4 cm = 2.28” × 1.26” × 0.94”

Main crystal size: 1.8 × 1 cm = 0.71” × 0.39”

Analyzed
Dioptase on Plancheite

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

MAL28AP3: Doubly terminated crystal of Dioptase more elongated than usual for the species, translucent and extraordinarily lustrous, on matrix, with deep blue Plancheite. The specimen comes from a little known deposit.
The Plancheite has been analyzed and we will send a copy of the analysis to the buyer.
Ngouedi mission village, Loutete, Mouyondzi District, Bouenza Department  Congo, Republic of the (2022)

Specimen size: 6 × 3.2 × 2.2 cm = 2.36” × 1.26” × 0.87”

Main crystal size: 1.8 × 0.7 cm = 0.71” × 0.28”

Analyzed
Dioptase on Plancheite. Dioptase on Plancheite.
Dioptase with Plancheite
Dioptase with Plancheite. Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Dioptase with Plancheite. Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

MLT67AP3: Group of Dioptase crystals, some of them doubly terminated and large, on matrix, with bright blue Plancheite. The specimen comes from a very little known locality.
The Plancheite has been analyzed and we will send a copy of the analysis to the buyer.
Ngouedi mission village, Loutete, Mouyondzi District, Bouenza Department  Congo, Republic of the (2022)

Specimen size: 9.5 × 5.8 × 2.9 cm = 3.74” × 2.28” × 1.14”

Main crystal size: 3.8 × 1.6 cm = 1.50” × 0.63”

Analyzed
Dioptase with Plancheite and Quartz

Fluorescent light (daylight)
 

MJK97AP3: Dioptase crystals, isolated or in small groups, more elongated than usual in the species and many of them doubly terminated, extraordinarily lustrous and on matrix. On Quartz and associated with Plancheite. The specimen comes from a very little known locality.
The Plancheite has been analyzed and we will send a copy of the analysis to the buyer.
Ngouedi mission village, Loutete, Mouyondzi District, Bouenza Department  Congo, Republic of the (2022)

Specimen size: 21 × 10.2 × 5.2 cm = 8.27” × 4.02” × 2.05”

Main crystal size: 1.1 × 0.2 cm = 0.43” × 0.08”

Dioptase with Plancheite and Quartz. Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Front / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Dioptase with Plancheite and Quartz. Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén
Detail / Photo: Joaquim Callén

  Previous Page Previous Page Next Page Next Page Arriba
Back to the Index of the Reference Specimens
 
 
USA
US
Minerals
Canada
Canada
Minerals
Mexico
Mexico
Minerals
Spain (general)
Spanish
Minerals
Spanish Fluorite
Spanish Fluorite
Portugal - Panasqueira
Portugal - Panasqueira
France
French
Minerals
Romania
Romanian
Minerals
Europe (excl. Spain, Portugal France and Romania)
European
Minerals
Russia - Eurasia
Russia - Eurasia
Minerals
Morocco
Moroccan
Minerals
Africa (excl. Morocco) - Tsumeb
African
Minerals
Brazil
Brazilian
Minerals
South America (excl. Brazil)
South American
Minerals
China
Chinese
Minerals
Asia (excl. China) - Australia -Turkey
Asia - Australia - Turkey
Minerals
Joaquim Callen's Photo Gallery
Joaquim Callen's
Photo Gallery
The Jan Buma Collections
The Jan Buma
Collections
The James Catmur Collection
The James Catmur
Collections
The Carles Curto Collection
The Carles Curto
Collection
The Daunis Collection
The Daunis
Collection
The Folch Collection
The Folch
Collection
The Pedro Goy Collection
The Pedro Goy
Collection
Oliete Collection
The Oliete
Collection
The Desmond Sacco Collection
The Desmond Sacco
Collection
The Silvane Collection
The Silvane
Collection
The Jordi Fabre Collection (duplicates)
The Jordi Fabre
Collection
Best Specimens
Best Specimens
Home
Home

Home page - Minerals  Comments  Minerales.info  Feedback Form  Search  
Home
page
Minerals
 Comments Minerales.info Feedback
Form
 Search