Cobaltoan Calcite on Matrix – Mashamba West Mine, Lualaba Province, Democratic Republic of Congo

A vibrant specimen of Cobaltoan Calcite from the renowned Mashamba West Mine in Lualaba Province, Democratic Republic of Congo. Famous among mineral collectors worldwide, this locality produces some of the most intensely colored pink calcite specimens ever discovered.

The remarkable color of Cobaltoan Calcite is derived from the presence of cobalt within the crystal structure, producing striking shades ranging from soft pink to vivid magenta. Specimens from Mashamba West are particularly prized for their rich coloration, sparkling crystal surfaces, and strong display presence.

Specimen Highlights

• Natural Cobaltoan Calcite
• Mashamba West Mine locality
• Lualaba Province, Democratic Republic of Congo
• Intense pink coloration
• Attractive crystal coverage
• Highly collectible African mineral specimen
• Excellent display piece

Mineral Information

• Mineral: Cobaltoan Calcite
• Group: Carbonates
• Crystal System: Trigonal
• Color: Pink to deep magenta
• Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Mashamba West Mine has become one of the world's most important modern sources of colorful cobalt-bearing minerals. The mine is particularly celebrated for producing exceptional specimens of Cobaltoan Calcite, often associated with other copper and cobalt minerals from the region.

Collectors value these specimens for:

• Exceptional natural color
• Strong visual appeal
• Desirable African locality
• Fine crystal development
• Display quality aesthetics
• Increasing scarcity of quality material

Depending on the specimen, natural features may include:

• Sparkling crystal druse
• Botryoidal growth patterns
• Layered crystal formations
• Matrix contrast
• Rich cobalt-induced coloration
• Multiple generations of crystal growth

Specimens from Mashamba West have become increasingly sought after by:

• Fine mineral collectors
• African mineral specialists
• Display specimen collectors
• Museum collections
• Educational collections
• Advanced mineral enthusiasts

The vivid coloration and world-famous locality make Cobaltoan Calcite from Mashamba West one of the most recognizable modern collector minerals available.

Provenance

Locality: Mashamba West Mine, Lualaba Province, Democratic Republic of Congo

Measurements

• Dimensions: 80 x 40 x 26 mm
• Weight: 85.3g

Condition

Please review all photographs carefully for overall condition, crystal quality, matrix, and natural growth characteristics, as they are considered part of the description. Natural mineral specimens commonly exhibit contact points, natural fractures, and growth features resulting from their formation.