Niobophyllite xls/(xls); Mt. Malosa, Zomba, Malawi; TN; unique piece
Niobophyllite crystals from Mount Malosa, Zomba, Malawi – micromount as unique piece
This micromount specimen displays lustrous deep black Niobophyllite crystals with a typical prismatic habit on light colored matrix. The crystals are clearly developed and show an attractive vitreous to metallic luster. Especially striking is the strong contrast between the dark crystals, the orange brown associated minerals and the pale feldspar and Quartz matrix. Despite its small size, the specimen has a very aesthetic appearance and represents the characteristic mineralization of Mt. Malosa particularly well.
Geology & Origin
Mt. Malosa in the Zomba region of Malawi is one of the most important alkaline pegmatite and syenite localities in Africa. The deposit is internationally known for its remarkable diversity of rare mineral species, including numerous niobium, titanium and rare earth bearing minerals. Niobophyllite forms there in differentiated pegmatitic zones and commonly occurs together with feldspars, Quartz and other complex silicates. Specimens from Mt. Malosa are especially valued for their distinctive crystal habits and the exceptional mineralogical diversity of this remarkable locality.
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) | 0.050000 |
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