Kolwezite & quartz druse - Lualaba, DR Congo | Ref. 535

Specimen of kolwezite (copper-cobalt carbonate) presented on druzy quartz.

A druse is a surface covered with countless tiny quartz crystals: they create a “sparkling dust” that highlights the green aggregates of kolwezite.

Kolwezite is recognized here by its rounded clusters (often called botryoidal, meaning “grape-like”) in shades of pale to vivid green.

Locality: Kolwezi District, Lualaba Province (former Katanga), DR Congo, 2024 harvest.

Interest of the specimen.

Clear contrast between green (kolwezite) and sparkling colorless (druzy quartz).

“Classic” provenance for this mineral species (reference locality in Kolwezi).

Handling advice: Kolwezite is softer than quartz, so avoid abrasive or acidic cleaning. Dust gently with an air blower or a very soft brush.

✅ Mineralogical Information

Main species: Kolwezite

Name: Kolwezite

- Chemical formula: (Cu,Co)₂CO₃(OH)₂ (copper and cobalt can substitute for each other)

- Color: Pale green to emerald green (sometimes bluish depending on the Cu/Co ratio)

- Luster: Silky to dull on finely fibrous surfaces.

- Hardness (Mohs): 4 to 4.5

- Density: ~4.1 to 4.3 g/cm³ (may vary depending on cobalt content)

Associated: Quartz (druzy)

- Formula: SiO₂

- Hardness (Mohs): 7

- Density: 2.65 g/cm³

Careful shipping and guaranteed quality

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