Oyelite and Calcite crystals from the N'Chwaning II Mine, Kalahari Manganese Field, South Africa – miniature specimen as unique piece
This attractive miniature specimen from the famous N'Chwaning II Mine displays an aesthetic combination of Oyelite and transparent Calcite crystals on contrasting matrix. The light colored Oyelite aggregates form delicate fibrous to radiating crystal rosettes with silky luster and a soft cream white to slightly pink appearance. The specimen is complemented by clearly developed Calcite crystals with vitreous luster and transparent habit. The different crystal forms and richly textured surface create a particularly decorative and mineralogically interesting appearance.
Geology & Origin
The N'Chwaning II Mine in the Kalahari Manganese Field of South Africa is one of the world's most important localities for exceptional manganese minerals. The deposit formed within strongly metamorphosed manganese rich sedimentary rocks of Proterozoic age. Complex hydrothermal processes produced numerous rare mineral species and unusual crystal associations. The mine is especially famous for outstanding collector specimens featuring rare minerals in a wide variety of colors and crystal habits.