Barytocalcite
specimen number:
2102306
location:
2nd Sun Vein, Nentsberry Haggs Mine, Alston Moor, England, UK
description: The Nentsberry Haggs Mine, located in the Alston Moor District of Cumbria, England, is a renowned site within the Northern Pennine Orefield. Geologically, the mine followed several major vein systems, such as the Nentsberry Haggs Vein and the High Raise Vein, which are hosted in Carboniferous-age limestone and sandstone layers. The mine is a type locality for the rare mineral barytocalcite, a barium calcium carbonate that was first discovered in this district. At Nentsberry Haggs, barytocalcite typically occurs as high-quality, transparent to milky-white monoclinic crystals or massive crystalline aggregates found within the hydrothermal veins. Historically, the mine was developed primarily for the extraction of lead and zinc ores, with significant underground mining and quarrying activities spanning from the early 19th century through the mid-20th century. While early work was conducted by the London Lead Company, the most productive era for zinc occurred under the Vieille Montagne Zinc Company in the early 1900s. Operations continued sporadically until the mine finally closed in the 1950s, leaving it as a premier location for mineralogists studying the unique carbonate and sulfide assemblages of the North Pennines.
Very good example for the species with white bladed crystals to 1.0 cm in size across the top of matrix. Classic locality for this mineral. In good condition.
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