Malachite Botryoidal - Height: 7.8 cm - Width: 12.2 cm- 1715 g

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Description from the seller

Massive malachite – Botryoidal mineral form – Old provenance Congo (Katanga) – 1,715 kg


Superb massive malachite nodule featuring a very characteristic botryoidal mineral form, composed of rounded globules naturally formed by the precipitation of copper carbonates in rocky cavities. This morphology, known as 'in clusters,' is one of the most sought-after signatures of malachite from Central Africa. The piece comes from an old succession of expatriates settled in Congo, probably from the Katanga mining region, renowned for over a century for its dense, varied malachites of an exceptional green. The outer crust, dark and slightly ferruginous, displays shades of black-brown mixed with greenish touches on the surface, while a sawn face reveals a dense internal malachite, deep green, with veins and lighter marbling typical of massive deposits.

The tradition of malachite blocks brought back by expatriates from Katanga dates back to the 1950s–1980s and is now a highly valued marker of authenticity. This specimen clearly exhibits these characteristics: entirely natural malachite, unpolished (except for the cut to facilitate presentation), free of modern treatments, and preserved in its raw state. The botryoidal appearance is particularly well developed, with several fused lobes forming a unique organic geometry.

Overall very good condition for a raw specimen of this size. The crust shows roughness, irregularities, and natural oxidation zones, without major chips. The cut reveals traces of ancient tools and fine scratches from origin, with no impact on mineralogical or decorative quality. No structural impact, no restoration.

Dimensions: 7.8 cm in height – 12.2 cm in width – 11.9 cm in depth.
Weight: 1,715 g.

Ancient botryoidal mineral form, very representative of the historical productions of Katanga. An ideal piece for collectors of copper minerals, old African provenance specimens, or large natural botryoidal samples.

The photos that are an integral part of the description, please refer to them to assess the condition and dimensions.
Fast, careful, and secure shipping.
Specific packaging and insurance included in the delivery price.
Shipping costs are calculated as accurately as possible to guarantee fast and high-quality delivery with optimal protection of the item.

Happy bidding

Seller's Story

For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by antique objects. It was not a simple curiosity or a passing nostalgia, but a true admiration for their almost magical ability to cross eras and pass from one life to another. At 15, the age when one can finally participate in flea markets, I began to realize this passion. However, before devoting myself fully to flea markets, I explored other fields by studying forest management and park and garden architecture. But it was after training in Antiques and Flea Markets, followed in evening classes, that I knew that my passion for antique objects would become my profession. I have been in this field for over thirty-five years now. Over the years, I have handled and studied hundreds of thousands of objects. Each of them has taught me something, constantly enriching my perspective and expertise. Over time, I have developed an ability to identify what is valuable, not only from a material point of view, but also for the story that an object can tell. I am convinced that in this profession, experience is worth much more than degrees. We learn by taking our time, by confronting mistakes and discoveries, by listening to those who came before us. The “old hands” in the profession, whom I was lucky enough to meet, passed on this wisdom to me: move slowly, avoid pitfalls and always remain curious. What motivates me, beyond the objects themselves, is their history. Each piece carries a memory, a fragment of a bygone past. My mission is to reveal this story, to transmit it. Abandoned objects thus find a new meaning. This approach fits perfectly with the modern values of sustainable economy and upcycling, but for me, it is above all guided by a deep conviction. Every day, I scour attics, garage sales, estates and auction rooms, always looking for hidden treasures. As a child, I dreamed of becoming a treasure hunter or explorer. Today, this dream has come true: in my own way, I am a hunter or, rather, a passer-by of objects. What I discover bears witness to an art of living, a know-how, an era that deserves to be preserved. The financial aspect is only a means in this approach, never an end. What drives me is the idea of discovering, understanding and sharing. Each object, no matter how modest, has a story to tell. My role is to highlight it, to give it back its place. In this context, Catawiki is a valuable tool. It allows me to share my discoveries with an audience of connoisseurs and enlightened amateurs, people who, like me, appreciate beautiful objects and their history. I am pleased to present to you my findings, the fruit of decades of research and passion. Perhaps you will find among them a piece that will resonate with your own history or that will enrich your daily life. These objects are not only witnesses of the past, they are also fragments of art and life to be transmitted.
Translated by Google Translate

Massive malachite – Botryoidal mineral form – Old provenance Congo (Katanga) – 1,715 kg


Superb massive malachite nodule featuring a very characteristic botryoidal mineral form, composed of rounded globules naturally formed by the precipitation of copper carbonates in rocky cavities. This morphology, known as 'in clusters,' is one of the most sought-after signatures of malachite from Central Africa. The piece comes from an old succession of expatriates settled in Congo, probably from the Katanga mining region, renowned for over a century for its dense, varied malachites of an exceptional green. The outer crust, dark and slightly ferruginous, displays shades of black-brown mixed with greenish touches on the surface, while a sawn face reveals a dense internal malachite, deep green, with veins and lighter marbling typical of massive deposits.

The tradition of malachite blocks brought back by expatriates from Katanga dates back to the 1950s–1980s and is now a highly valued marker of authenticity. This specimen clearly exhibits these characteristics: entirely natural malachite, unpolished (except for the cut to facilitate presentation), free of modern treatments, and preserved in its raw state. The botryoidal appearance is particularly well developed, with several fused lobes forming a unique organic geometry.

Overall very good condition for a raw specimen of this size. The crust shows roughness, irregularities, and natural oxidation zones, without major chips. The cut reveals traces of ancient tools and fine scratches from origin, with no impact on mineralogical or decorative quality. No structural impact, no restoration.

Dimensions: 7.8 cm in height – 12.2 cm in width – 11.9 cm in depth.
Weight: 1,715 g.

Ancient botryoidal mineral form, very representative of the historical productions of Katanga. An ideal piece for collectors of copper minerals, old African provenance specimens, or large natural botryoidal samples.

The photos that are an integral part of the description, please refer to them to assess the condition and dimensions.
Fast, careful, and secure shipping.
Specific packaging and insurance included in the delivery price.
Shipping costs are calculated as accurately as possible to guarantee fast and high-quality delivery with optimal protection of the item.

Happy bidding

Seller's Story

For as long as I can remember, I have been fascinated by antique objects. It was not a simple curiosity or a passing nostalgia, but a true admiration for their almost magical ability to cross eras and pass from one life to another. At 15, the age when one can finally participate in flea markets, I began to realize this passion. However, before devoting myself fully to flea markets, I explored other fields by studying forest management and park and garden architecture. But it was after training in Antiques and Flea Markets, followed in evening classes, that I knew that my passion for antique objects would become my profession. I have been in this field for over thirty-five years now. Over the years, I have handled and studied hundreds of thousands of objects. Each of them has taught me something, constantly enriching my perspective and expertise. Over time, I have developed an ability to identify what is valuable, not only from a material point of view, but also for the story that an object can tell. I am convinced that in this profession, experience is worth much more than degrees. We learn by taking our time, by confronting mistakes and discoveries, by listening to those who came before us. The “old hands” in the profession, whom I was lucky enough to meet, passed on this wisdom to me: move slowly, avoid pitfalls and always remain curious. What motivates me, beyond the objects themselves, is their history. Each piece carries a memory, a fragment of a bygone past. My mission is to reveal this story, to transmit it. Abandoned objects thus find a new meaning. This approach fits perfectly with the modern values of sustainable economy and upcycling, but for me, it is above all guided by a deep conviction. Every day, I scour attics, garage sales, estates and auction rooms, always looking for hidden treasures. As a child, I dreamed of becoming a treasure hunter or explorer. Today, this dream has come true: in my own way, I am a hunter or, rather, a passer-by of objects. What I discover bears witness to an art of living, a know-how, an era that deserves to be preserved. The financial aspect is only a means in this approach, never an end. What drives me is the idea of discovering, understanding and sharing. Each object, no matter how modest, has a story to tell. My role is to highlight it, to give it back its place. In this context, Catawiki is a valuable tool. It allows me to share my discoveries with an audience of connoisseurs and enlightened amateurs, people who, like me, appreciate beautiful objects and their history. I am pleased to present to you my findings, the fruit of decades of research and passion. Perhaps you will find among them a piece that will resonate with your own history or that will enrich your daily life. These objects are not only witnesses of the past, they are also fragments of art and life to be transmitted.
Translated by Google Translate

Details

Main Mineral
Malachite
Mineral Form
Botryoidal
Supplement
Massive malachite
Weight
1715 g
Origin (Region/ City)
Katanga
Country of Origin
Congo
Height
7.8 cm
Width
12.2 cm
Depth
9.11 cm
BelgiumVerified
470
Objects sold
100%
pro

Disclaimer

It is believed that certain gemstones and minerals have beneficial health and spiritual properties. However, using or wearing gemstones or minerals does not mean that you can treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult your health care professional for information on health care issues and do not stop any medications or courses of treatment, without first consulting your health care professional. The use of gemstones or minerals as a wellness therapy is one of personal choice. While stones or crystals have been used historically to relieve or prevent symptoms, the objects sold on our website offer no guarantee of results. Therefore, Catawiki cannot guarantee or be held liable for the effectiveness of these objects sold herein.

It is believed that certain gemstones and minerals have beneficial health and spiritual properties. However, using or wearing gemstones or minerals does not mean that you can treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult your health care professional for information on health care issues and do not stop any medications or courses of treatment, without first consulting your health care professional. The use of gemstones or minerals as a wellness therapy is one of personal choice. While stones or crystals have been used historically to relieve or prevent symptoms, the objects sold on our website offer no guarantee of results. Therefore, Catawiki cannot guarantee or be held liable for the effectiveness of these objects sold herein.

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