Bixbyite xls; N'Chwaning III Mine, Kalahari Manganese Field, South Africa; Min; unique piece
Bixbyite crystals from the N'Chwaning III Mine, Kalahari Manganese Field, South Africa – miniature specimen as unique piece
This miniature specimen with Bixbyite crystals from the N'Chwaning III Mine, Kalahari Manganese Field, South Africa shows an attractive crystal development of this rare manganese oxide mineral. Numerous deep black Bixbyite crystals with a strong metallic luster are developed on the light colored matrix.
The crystals are mainly cubic to isometric in form and occur as dense crystal groups across the matrix surface. The high crystal density combined with the intense luster creates a strong visual contrast between the glossy black crystals and the pale matrix. The specimen represents a characteristic example of Bixbyite from the N'Chwaning mines of the Kalahari Manganese Field.
Geology & Origin
The N'Chwaning mines in the Kalahari Manganese Field are among the most important localities worldwide for manganese minerals. The deposits formed in manganese rich sedimentary rocks that were later modified by metamorphic and hydrothermal processes. Within this geochemically unusual environment numerous rare manganese minerals developed. Bixbyite is one of the typical oxide minerals from this deposit and can form well developed, highly lustrous crystals.
This table is for general information and orientation, although the sizes of the stones may vary. In addition, this specification is handled differently from region to region.
| Sizes | Description | approx. Sizes in mm/cm | approx. Sizes in INCH | |
| Capsule | Capsule | 0.1–0.5 mm in a transparent hard capsule (approx. 1 cm) | capsule contents 0.1–0.5 mm | capsule contents 0.004–0.02 in |
| TN/mm | Micromount (TN = Thumbnail) | everything fitting in a TN Perky box or a MM box of approx. 1 in | approx. 0.5–2.5 cm | max. 1 in |
| Min | Miniature specimen | will not fit a TN or MM box anymore | approx. 2.5–5 cm | approx. 0.2–1.0 in |
| Scab | small cabinet specimen | approx. one-third to half a hand size | approx. 5–9 cm | approx. 1.0–2.0 in |
| Cab | cabinet specimen | full hand size | approx. 9–15 cm | approx. 2.0–3.5 in |
| large Cab | large cabinet specimen | approx. two hand sizes | approx. 15–30 cm | approx. 3.5–6.0 in |
| very large Cab | very large cabinet specimen | everything larger, no upper limit |
Abbreviations commonly used in mineralogy.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
| xl | single crystal, possible with matrix |
| xls | noticeable crystals |
| (xl) | embedded or damaged |
| (xls) | embedded or damaged |
| MASS | massive and/or amorphous pieces |
| TYP | type locality of the original description |
| SWUV | shortwave-UV-reaction |
| UV | ultraviolet reaction |
| SC | self-collected |
| U | unique (single unique piece) |
Usage Instructions
This product is ideal as a collector's item, decorative element, teaching material, or for scientific and exhibition purposes.
Legal Notices
Safety
We accept no liability for damages resulting from improper and/or non-recommended use. Please carefully assess the suitability of the product before any alternative use.
Responsible Provider
Mikon Mineralienkontor GmbH
Steinslieth 11
D-37130 Gleichen OT Klein Lengden
Email: info@mikon-online.com
| shipment-weight, NOT netto weight (kg) | 0.080000 |
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