Ankerite
specimen number:
2102231
location:
Jug Vein, Brownley Hill Mine, Nenthead, Cumbria, England, UK
description: The Brownley Hill Mine, located near Alston within the North Pennines of Cumbria, England, is a classic locality situated in the historic Alston Moor mining district. Geologically, it exploited a series of hydrothermal veins hosted in Carboniferous limestone and sandstone, where mineralizing fluids deposited lead and zinc ores in fault-controlled structures. The mine is world-renowned among collectors for its exceptional crystallized minerals, particularly its unique pearl-spar dolomite, lustrous galena, and the rare green or blue varieties of smithsonite. Historically, the mine saw its most significant activity under the management of the London Lead Company and later the Vieille Montagne Zinc Company, with major operations spanning from the late 18th century through the early 20th century. Production largely ceased by the 1930s, but the site remains a major research interest due to its diverse mineralogy and its status as one of the best examples of the Northern Pennine Orefield.
The top of matrix is covered by curved rhombohedral crystals of ankerite. In great condition. Good cabinet sized example for the species from this well-known British locality.
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