Carbonatite
Introduction: Carbonatite are high in calcite and often contain magnetite and pyroxene. The Dicker Willem carbonatite outcrop in the Namib Desert, east of Luderitz, can be identified by the roundish outline standing out high above the surrounding sandy plains.
Distribution: Most carbonatite concentrations are found in southern and north-central Namibian areas such as Dicker Willem, Kalkveld, Okorusu and Gross Brukkaros.
Composition: Contains rare-earth element minerals and economic deposits such as phosphate.
Colouration: Resembles kimberlite with speckled white calcite evident.
Uses: Exploited for phosphate and zirconium.
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