Calcite

specimen number:
2013629

location:
Sweetwater Mine, Viburnum Trend, Reynolds Co., Missouri, USA

description:

Lustrous gemmy crystals of calcite, the prominent crystal double terminated and 6.0 cm in length, coming off matrix. Note the was scalenohedral phantom inclusions within the calcite crystals. This is in terrific condition. From the early 1980s to late 1970s.

The Sweetwater Mine, located in Reynolds County, Missouri, is a major pillar of the world-class Viburnum Trend, an extensive lead-zinc district within the New Lead Belt. Geologically, it is a Mississippi Valley-Type (MVT) deposit where mineralizing fluids replaced the Cambrian-aged Bonneterre Dolomite, creating vast ore bodies rich in galena, sphalerite, and chalcopyrite. This mine is particularly famous among collectors for producing exceptional specimens of golden-to-amber calcite and iridescent chalcopyrite crystals often found perched on a matrix of dolostone or massive galena. Historically, the mine was originally developed by the Ozark Lead Company and began full-scale production in 1968. It was later acquired by ASARCO and is currently operated by the Doe Run Company, having remained in near-continuous operation for over five decades. Today, the Sweetwater Mine continues to be a primary source of lead for global markets while consistently providing museum-quality mineral specimens that are prized for their complex crystal habits and aesthetic brilliance.

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