Descloizite

specimen number:
2133170

location:
Berg Aukas, Grootfontein, Namibia

description:
A superb floater cluster of well-formed and slightly iridescent descloizite crystals. In good condition, this is excellent for the species.

The Berg Aukas Mine in Namibia is a well known locality that was developed for the extraction of lead, zinc, and vanadium from a pipe like carbonate hosted deposit. Mining activity took place mainly during the mid 20th century, with underground workings following a complex ore body enriched in vanadium minerals. Although the mine was relatively small in scale, it became world famous among collectors for its exceptional descloizite specimens. The descloizite from Berg Aukas typically occurs as sharp, lustrous crystals ranging from dark red to nearly black, often forming drusy coatings and crystal clusters on matrix. These specimens formed in the oxidized zone of the deposit where vanadium and lead bearing solutions precipitated under favorable conditions. Due to their rich color, crystal quality, and overall aesthetic appeal, descloizite specimens from Berg Aukas are considered among the finest ever found and are highly prized by collectors.

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