Quantum quattro natural mineral 637g, Namibia | MINERALS-STONES

Quantum Quattro exists in several forms and can also be found among rare stones. The deposits of this stone are in Namibia. It is a very rare combination of malachite, chrysocolla, shattuckite and dioptase. Due to its rarity and uniqueness, Quantum Quattro is sought after by collectors and jewelers all over the world. If you are looking for a piece that is characterized by beauty and extraordinaryness, Quantum Quattro could be the right choice for you.

Quantum Quattro is a rare composite mineral formed by the natural stratification and intergrowth of four copper silicates: malachite, chrysocolla, shattuckite and dioptase. These minerals occur together in copper deposits, especially in the area of ​​Namibia (locality Kaokoveld) and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Composition and characteristics of individual components
Malachite – Cu₂CO₃(OH)₂

Basic copper carbonate. It is formed secondary by oxidation of primary copper ores.

Color: deep green, banded

Luster: silky to dull

Hardness: 3.5–4 Mohs

Crystal system: monoclinic

Chrysocolla – (Cu,Al)₂H₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄·nH₂O

Hydrated copper and aluminum silicate, often forming amorphous to microcrystalline coatings.

Color: blue-green to turquoise

Luster: dull to glassy

Hardness: 2–4 Mohs

Crystal system: amorphous or cryptocrystalline

Shattuckite – Cu₅(SiO₃)₄(OH)₂

A rare copper silicate forming acicular or fibrous aggregates, often in association with chrysocolla and malachite.

Color: deep blue

Luster: silky to glassy

Hardness: 3.5 Mohs

Crystal system: orthorhombic

Dioptase – Cu₆Si₆O₁₈·6H₂O

Intensely green copper silicate, crystallizing in short prismatic crystals.

Color: emerald to blue-green

Luster: glassy

Hardness: 5 Mohs

Crystal system: trigonal

Geological characteristics

Quantum Quattro is formed by secondary oxidation processes of copper ores, when the above-mentioned minerals precipitate together in the cavities and cracks of rocks. This leads to their intergrowth and zonal texture, characterized by alternating blue, turquoise and green zones.

The resulting material is compact, often breccia-like, with significant color variability and a combined mineralogical structure.