Shadowkite: the Story Behind the Gemstone | Shop LC

Shadowkite: From the Shadow of Table Mountain

Rare and exotic, Table Mountain Shadowkite is a blended gem found in the Table Mountain range of South Africa. Sourced from mines near Cape Town, this unique combination of colors isn’t found anywhere else! Join us as we discuss this fascinating gem.

Shadowkite Blend

• Composed of chrysocolla, cuprite, malachite and azurite.
• Sourced near Cape Town, South Africa.
• All natural and untreated.

Shadowkite receives its captivating blue and green coloration from the presence of copper. In fact, each gem that goes into this material is related to and contains this metal. Generally speaking, gems that are found near copper will be green, blue, or any color in between. There are exceptions, however. Ruddy cuprite is an example readily seen in specimens of shadowkite.

Shadowkite rings and pendant in settings of sterling silver. Table Mountain The home of shadowkite, Table Mountain looms over Cape Town, who sits in its shadow. Named for the flat mesa at its top, the mountain, and surrounding range has a long history of mining. During the gold and diamond rush that swept South Africa in the 19th century, many settlers came to Africa, seeking riches and work.

The Table Mountain range was previously mined for precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. In addition, sources of tin and manganese were also discovered and dug from the earth here.

• Known as Hoerikwaggo in the Khoikhoi language.
• Protected as a World Heritage Site.
• The constellation, “The Table,” is named after Table Mountain.

Table Mountain Shadowkite at Shop LC