Aragonite on Botryoidal Malachite from the Katanga Copperbelt, DRC

This elegant Aragonite on Botryoidal Malachite specimen from the famous Kolwezi Region in the Katanga Copperbelt, Democratic Republic of the Congo, beautifully illustrates the diversity of minerals formed within one of the world's richest copper deposits. Velvety botryoidal Malachite provides a rich green backdrop for numerous white Aragonite clusters and delicate radiating crystal sprays that add texture, contrast and visual depth.

The specimen is covered with classic rounded Malachite formations displaying a fine drusy surface that creates a soft, sparkling appearance. Throughout the display face, white Aragonite occurs as rounded aggregates together with attractive sprays of slender crystals nestled between the Malachite domes. Small areas of exposed natural matrix provide further character and emphasise the specimen's natural formation.

Specimen Details

✓ Mineral: Malachite
✓ Associated Minerals: Aragonite
✓ Locality: Kolwezi Region, Katanga Copperbelt, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
✓ Crystal System: Monoclinic (Malachite & Aragonite)
✓ Colour: Rich Green with White Aragonite
✓ Lustre: Velvety to Silky (Malachite); Vitreous to Pearly (Aragonite)
✓ Transparency: Opaque (Malachite); Translucent to Opaque (Aragonite)
✓ Crystal Habit: Botryoidal Malachite with Rounded Aragonite Aggregates and Radiating Crystal Sprays
✓ Specimen Size: Approximately 93 mm × 78 mm × 13 mm
✓ Weight: 126 g

The Katanga Copperbelt has long been recognised as one of the world's premier localities for copper minerals. Over millions of years, mineral-rich hydrothermal fluids deposited successive layers of Malachite within fractures and cavities, producing the characteristic botryoidal forms that collectors prize today. Later mineralising events introduced Aragonite, creating attractive white crystal clusters that contrast beautifully against the deep green Malachite.

This specimen is especially appealing for its broad display face, where dozens of rounded Malachite formations are interwoven with sparkling Aragonite sprays and white crystal aggregates. The combination of contrasting colours, varied crystal habits and fine drusy texture creates an eye-catching cabinet specimen that reveals new details with every closer look.

Whether you're beginning a mineral collection, building a suite of African copper minerals, or searching for a distinctive display specimen, this Aragonite on Botryoidal Malachite offers an outstanding combination of aesthetic beauty, classic locality and collector appeal.