TERRIUM — A mineralogy cabinet

Shattuckita

Shattuckita is a mineral with formula Cu₅(SiO₃)₄(OH)₂, in the Silicatos (Inosilicatos) group. This specimen comes from Mesopotamia 504 Farm, Khorixas, Kaokoveld, Kunene, Namibia.

Shattuckita from Mesopotamia 504 Farm, Khorixas, Kaokoveld, Kunene, Namibia — Terrium

Description

Shatu la negra. Well-defined blue-green botryoidal shattuckite on dense, heavy black matrix. Silky lustre, characteristic fibrous, velvety texture. Good under a loupe.

History of this specimen

Sister counterpart to "Shatu la Blanca", 0044, which shows the same shattuckite but on a white quartz matrix.

About Shattuckita

Shattuckite is a copper mineral, a hydrated silicate that forms in the oxidised zones of copper deposits, associated with chrysocolla, malachite and other secondary minerals. Its colour ranges from deep blue to blue-green. It shows botryoidal, fibrous or acicular habit, with a silky, velvety texture. It is uncommon, especially in well-defined spherical aggregates.

About the locality

Mesopotamia 504 Farm, in the Mesopotamia Copper Valley, is a polymetallic deposit of copper-bearing veins and other mineralisations. Botryoidal shattuckite and other classic secondary minerals have been collected here, but there is no documentation of a continuous modern mining operation. The few pieces available come mainly from historical workings, outcrops, or small, artisanal and scattered workings in the region.

Technical data

Catalogue No.
0045
Composition
Cu₅(SiO₃)₄(OH)₂
Name
Shattuckita
Group
Silicatos (Inosilicatos)
Category
Cavella
Matrix
Galena masiva
Mine
Mesopotamia 504 Farm
District / Municipality
Khorixas
Province
Kaokoveld
Region
Kunene
Country
Namibia
Size (cm)
4 x 4 x 3
Etymology
Named after the Shattuck Mine, Arizona, where it was discovered. Shattuckite is a rare copper silicate, known for its blue colour and botryoidal or fibrous forms.
Quality
Muy buena
Value trend
Estable

Related specimens

← Back to Terrium catalogue