This specimen features a plate of excellent glimmering, torbernite crystals with good lustre. A classic, older specimen from the Mashamba West Mine in Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo), it boasts a rich coverage of forest-green, tabular torbernite crystals on an oxidized matrix, making for a striking piece, particularly under mincroscope.
Torbernite is a radioactive, hydrated copper uranyl phosphate mineral, often found in granitic and other uranium-bearing deposits as a secondary mineral. It shares a similar chemical structure with autunite, though in torbernite, the Cu²⁺ cation replaces the Ca²⁺ cation. Over time, torbernite tends to dehydrate, altering into metatorbernite. The Mashamba West Mine, which began open-cast mining operations in 1978, is a highly regarded mineral locality, well-known for yielding exceptional mineral specimens.
Be the first to know: latest additions, featured minerals, events, and exclusive updates await you.
Subscribe Now!
Website design by Melanie Lane.
Development and maintenance by Wenex Media Works.