Arsenopyrite with Domeykite replacing Arsenic and Pyrargyrite

specimen number:
1052475

location:
Samson Mine, St Andreasberg, Braunlage, Goslar, Lower Saxony, Germany

description:
Crystallized metallic arsenopyrite throughout this matrix with domeykite replacing native arsenic and small crystallized pyrargyrite throughout. Very interesting specimen for this old classic locality. The specimen comes with an antique label as shown at the end of the video dating this to the very early 20th century.

The Samson Mine, located in Sankt Andreasberg in the Harz Mountains of Germany, is one of the most historically important silver mines in the region, with activity dating back to the 16th century. The mine worked hydrothermal vein deposits hosted in Paleozoic rocks, where mineralizing fluids introduced silver, lead, zinc, and other metals into fractures and fault zones. Extensive underground workings were developed over several centuries, making the mine one of the deepest and most productive in the Harz district. In addition to its economic significance, the Samson Mine is well known for its mineral specimens, including silver minerals and a variety of secondary species formed in the oxidized zones. Mining operations continued into the 20th century before finally closing, and today the site is preserved as a historic mine and museum, reflecting its important role in European mining history.

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