Covelline - Covellite from the Clara Mine, Black Forest, Germany – miniature specimen as unique piece
This miniature specimen features Covellite from the famous Clara Mine in the Black Forest, Germany. The surface is covered with intensely dark blue to indigo colored Covellite crystals showing a metallic to slightly iridescent luster. Particularly striking is the strong color contrast between the deep blue crystal aggregates and the light colored matrix areas. The crystals form fine grained to platy structures with a vivid surface and the typical metallic appearance of the mineral. Under magnification numerous small crystal faces become visible, giving the specimen an exceptionally attractive appearance.
Geology & origin
The Clara Mine in the Black Forest is one of the best known mineral localities in Germany and is world famous for its extraordinary mineral diversity. Covellite is a rare copper sulfide that forms in hydrothermal ore deposits under sulfur rich conditions. Characteristic features of the mineral are its deep indigo blue color and metallic luster. Specimens from the Clara Mine are especially popular among collectors because of the classic locality and attractive crystal development.