Metatorbernite: Musonoi mine, Katanga, DR Congo

Description

Species: Metatorbernite

Locality: Musonoi Mine (Musonoi Extension Mine), Kolwezi, Kolwezi mining district, Lualaba, DR Congo

Dimensions: 5.5 x 3.8 x 2.5 cm.

Ex. Jack Nieburger Collection

This is a beautiful specimen of lustrous, gemmy, brilliant emerald-green metatorbernite crystals to over 1.6 cm each forming an undamaged flower-like cluster from the classic Musonoi mine in the DR Congo. Fine metatorbernite specimens from the Congo have become rather uncommon on the market, and this superb older specimen is in great condition and quite aesthetic too. This was the finest single specimen in the Jack Nieburger collection radioactive suite and was originally valued at $3200. Much better in person that my photos can convey! Measures ~150,000 CPM on my Ludlum Model 3 Counter with the 44-9 probe. Choice!