With nearly a century of documented collecting history, this remarkable mineral specimen originates from the legendary copper deposits of Dognecea (Dognácska) in the Banat Mountains of Romania. Rich velvet-green fibrous malachite is beautifully accented by vibrant royal blue azurite with traces of bornite, creating the classic copper mineral association that has made this historic European locality one of the most admired among mineral collectors.
Accompanying the specimen are its original handwritten collection notes dated November 10, 1940, preserving an extraordinary chain of provenance spanning nearly a century. The specimen later became part of the private collection of respected Southern California mineral dealer and photographer Joseph Simon of Rainbow XLS before being acquired by the estate division of Traders Loan & Jewelry. Included with this specimen are the original handwritten 1940 collection label, the original Rainbow XLS provenance card, a Traders Loan & Jewelry business card bearing handwritten specimen identification and provenance, and the original vintage presentation box.
Dognecea is one of Europe’s most celebrated historic copper mining districts and has long been recognized for producing exceptional specimens of malachite, azurite, bornite, and other secondary copper minerals. As production from this classic locality has long since ceased, well-documented examples have become increasingly sought after by collectors. Combining exceptional provenance, historical documentation, and classic Romanian mineralogy, this specimen represents both an outstanding display piece and an important piece of mineral collecting history.
Scientific Information
Malachite is a secondary copper carbonate hydroxide mineral with the chemical formula Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂, while azurite is the closely related copper carbonate hydroxide mineral Cu₃(CO₃)₂(OH)₂. Both minerals formed through the oxidation of copper-rich ore deposits as mineral-bearing groundwater circulated through fractures within the host rock over millions of years. During this natural process, the minerals crystallized directly from solution, growing naturally from the matrix itself rather than becoming attached later. Traces of bornite, a copper iron sulfide mineral, remain visible within portions of the specimen, representing remnants of the original copper mineralization from which the colorful secondary copper minerals developed.
Measurements & Weight
Approximately 1.00 inch x 1.00 inch x 0.60 inch
Approximately 11.34 grams (0.40 ounce)
Thumbnail Specimen
Included with Purchase
Natural Malachite, Azurite & Traces of Bornite Specimen
Original Handwritten European Collection Label Dated November 10, 1940
Original Rainbow XLS Provenance Card
Traders Loan & Jewelry Business Card Bearing Handwritten Specimen Identification and Provenance
Original Vintage Cardboard Presentation Box
Metaphysical Properties
Malachite has long been associated with transformation, protection, and personal growth. Many believe it encourages confidence while helping release old patterns and embracing positive change.
Azurite has traditionally been regarded as a stone of wisdom, intuition, and expanded awareness. Together, these remarkable copper minerals have been admired for generations not only for their striking natural beauty but also for their symbolic connection to insight, clarity, and spiritual development.
Condition Report
This specimen is in excellent collectible condition with vibrant natural color, attractive crystal development, and outstanding documented provenance. The original handwritten collection label, original Rainbow XLS provenance card, Traders Loan & Jewelry business card bearing handwritten specimen identification and provenance, and original vintage presentation box are all included.
As with all natural mineral specimens, small natural contacts and irregularities from crystal growth and historical collection are present. No repairs or restoration have been performed. The specimen will be professionally packaged to help ensure safe arrival.
Safe Handling:
This is a natural mineral specimen intended for display and collecting purposes. Handle with reasonable care, wash hands after handling, and avoid creating or inhaling dust from the specimen. Keep out of reach of small children and pets.
Mineral Identification Disclaimer:
Every effort has been made to accurately identify and describe this specimen using available reference materials, labels, provenance, and careful visual examination. While I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a professionally trained mineralogist or gemologist, and inadvertent errors in mineral identification, locality attribution, or other descriptive information may occasionally occur.
Collectors are encouraged to carefully review all photographs and use their own knowledge and judgment when evaluating any specimen. If you have any questions or would like additional photographs or information before purchasing, I will be happy to assist. By purchasing this specimen, the buyer acknowledges that the identification and description represent my best good-faith assessment and are not a professional laboratory determination.