Krohnkite with Brochantite

specimen number:
1052012

location:
Chuquicamata Mine, Calama, El Loa, Antofagasta, Chile

description:

Blue translucent crystalline krohnkite on matrix with associated brochantite from the Chuquicamata Mine, Chile. The krohnkite forms attractive blue crystals with good translucency and vitreous luster, contrasting nicely with the typically deep green brochantite on the matrix. Krohnkite is a hydrated copper sulfate that forms in arid, oxidized copper deposits, often as a secondary mineral in the supergene zone, and well crystallized examples are uncommon and desirable. Brochantite is a basic copper sulfate known for its rich green color and fibrous to acicular crystal habits, also forming in the oxidation zones of copper deposits. The Chuquicamata Mine in northern Chile is one of the largest open pit copper mines in the world and is famous for producing an exceptional suite of secondary copper minerals. This specimen also comes with an antique label dating to the early 20th century, as shown at the end of the video, adding important historical provenance and collector appeal.

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