Detailed information
Species
Braunite, Calcite
Dimensions
25 x 50 x 34
mm
Weight
24 g
Locality
N'Chwaning Mines Kuruman, Kalahari Mn. Field N. Cape Province, South Africa
Condition
No recorded repairs
Braunite is an unusual manganese silicate mineral and one which rarely occurs as obvious crystals. The relatively recent material from the N'Chwaning mines in South Africa turns that on its head and this specimen is a prime example. This miniature specimen of white Calcite has several prominent, black, thick tabular crystals of Braunite sat upon its surface. The Braunite forms excellent 'chunky' tabular, glossy, black crystals (to about 10 mm across and 6 mm wide) which contrast beautifully with the white Calcite crystals. A really fine example of what Braunite crystals can look like. I can well believe that these will be classic specimens in years to come.