Barite on Fluorite

specimen number:
2013542

location:
Gaskins Mine, Pope Co., Illinois, USA

description:

A classic example for this locality collected in the middle 1970s. Beautiful combination piece with golden lustrous slightly translucent tabular barite crystals measuring 5.0 cm across perched nicely up on a grouping of highly translucent bluish purple cubic fluorite crystals. In excellent condition. At one time the specimen was part of the collection of Ohio dealer Ron Sohn.

The Gaskins Mine, located in Pope County, Illinois, was a notable fluorspar operation within the expansive Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District. Geologically, the mine exploited vein-type deposits where fluorine-rich hydrothermal solutions filled near-vertical faults and fractures within Mississippian-aged limestone and sandstone strata. These hydrothermal fluids precipitated high-purity fluorite along with secondary minerals such as galena, sphalerite, and barite, often creating open pockets that allowed for the growth of well-formed cubic crystals. Historically, the mine began significant development and production in the late 1940s, with its primary period of operation spanning from 1948 until the late 1970s under the management of the Ozark-Mahoning Company. The site became famous among mineral collectors for producing aesthetic fluorite specimens characterized by their intense purple coloration, frequently displaying sharp cubic habits and distinct color zoning. Golden barite crystals collected in the 1970's are also very noteworthy. Although the mine is now closed and the workings are inaccessible, the specimens recovered during its active years remain highly regarded in the mineralogical community as classic examples of the district's unique geological heritage.

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