Vandenbrandeite, Kasolite, Malachite: Musonoi mine, Kolwezi, Mutshatsha, Lualaba, DR Congo

Description

Species: Vandenbrandeite, Kasolite, Malachite

Locality: Musonoi mine, Kolwezi, Mutshatsha, Lualaba, DR Congo

Size: 4 x 4 x 2.6 cm. (75 grams)

Ex. Henri Vandormael Collection

Superb specimen of forest-green vandenbrandeite crystals to an impressive ~1 cm. on massive malachite and uranium mineral matrix, with small orange kasolite crystals, from the famous Musonoi mine, Kolwezi, DR Congo. This is a great specimen for this rare uranium species, from the noted collection of Henri Vandormael, former mine geologist at the Musonoi mine and other Congolese mines for the Union Miniere Haut Katanga (UMHK) company in the 1960’s, 70’s and 80’s. This was later in the collection of noted uranium mineral specialist Eric Quinter. Exceptional quality for this species at the Musonoi mine! Measures ~70,000 CPM on my Ludlum Model 3 Counter with the 44-9 probe. Good crystallized uranium minerals from Musonoi are very hard to come by these days and this is a great specimen with a superb provenance. Much better in person!