Faceted Shattuckite point from Kaokoveld (Namibia), 15×10×8 mm. Opaque cobalt blue to sky blue with contrasting light streaks and veins. Hand-carved in our lapidary workshop.
Piece details
| Mineral |
Shattuckite (hydrated copper silicate, Cu₅(SiO₃)₄(OH)₂) |
| Dimensions |
15×10×8 mm |
| Shape and back |
Natural faceted point with flat base |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
3.5 Mohs — we recommend a closed bezel setting; very low hardness, vulnerable to scratches |
| Origin |
Kaokoveld Region, Namibia |
| Treatment |
Stabilized with epoxy resin — standard lapidary process for low-hardness minerals, identical to that used for turquoise |
| Type of piece |
Unique piece |
This specific piece
Shattuckite is an opaque mineral: it does not transmit light. The visual effect that characterizes this point is not translucence but the contrast between the dark cobalt blue and the veins of lighter material —quartz or calcite— that run through it
Measuring 15×10×8 mm, this point has a compact sculptural proportion. Its greater depth (8 mm) compared to its width (10 mm) gives it an almost cubic profile that works well both as a short-axis pendant and as a cabochon element in designer rings.
How Shattuckite forms
Shattuckite is a secondary copper silicate that forms in the oxidation zone of copper sulfide deposits, particularly in the presence of chrysocolla.
What settings it works for
-
Closed bezel setting (925 silver or other precious metals) — essential given the low Mohs hardness. The bezel protects all edges and the tip's sharp edge, which is the most exposed area. With darkened or patinated silver, the contrast with the Shattuckite's blue is extraordinary.
-
Pendants with closed settings in copper or silver — metallic copper reinforces the mineral narrative (Shattuckite is a copper silicate) and creates an interesting visual coherence.
-
Wire wrap with copper wire — accessible alternative; the wrapping protects the sides of the piece and copper combines well chromatically.
Shattuckite in lapidary tradition
Shattuckite is a relatively rare mineral in lapidary quality: productive deposits are limited to a few sites in Arizona, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Namibia. For this reason, it has always been a collector's material rather than a mass-produced one.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine Shattuckite
Genuine Shattuckite is completely opaque: if a "Shattuckite-like blue" piece lets some light through, it is probably chrysocolla or a mixture. Shattuckite's blue is more cobalt and darker than the sky blue of pure chrysocolla.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has the Shattuckite been treated or stabilized?
Yes. This piece is stabilized with epoxy resin, the same standard process applied to cut turquoise and an accepted treatment in the industry. Stabilization hardens the material (Mohs 3.5) to enable lapidary work and improves polishing and luster.
Why is low hardness important for setting?
At 3.5 Mohs, Shattuckite is softer than a copper coin (3 Mohs) and much softer than quartz (7 Mohs). In everyday jewelry, exposed edges are easily scratched.
Is Shattuckite a rare mineral?
Yes. In lapidary quality and with the intense blue characteristic of Namibia's Kaokoveld, Shattuckite is a material of limited production and difficult to find on the European market. It is, first and foremost, a collector's item.
Is each point unique?
Yes. A unique hand-carved piece. Dimensions have a tolerance of ±0.5 mm.
What are the dimensions?
15×10×8 mm. Tolerance ±0.5 mm in any dimension due to being hand-carved.
How do I care for this piece?
Clean only with a dry cloth. No water or chemicals. Shattuckite is especially sensitive to moisture and mild acids. Store in an individual padded case, separate from any other stone or metal that could scratch it.
See also: complete lapidary collection · raw minerals.
