Calcite

specimen number:
2292440

location:
Lordsburg, New Mexico, USA

description:
A large matrix plate covered by attractive scalenohedral crystals of calcite to 2.0 cm in height. Very minimal cleaving present, this is in good condition. An incredibly fluorescent.

The Lordsburg district, located in southwestern New Mexico, is characterized by volcanic rocks associated with the complex tectonic history of the Basin and Range province. The local geology primarily features intermediate to felsic volcanic sequences from the Tertiary period, which were subsequently faulted and intruded by mineralizing hydrothermal fluids. These geological processes created epithermal veins containing gold, silver, copper, and lead. Mining activity in the area began in the late 1870s following the discovery of silver, and the subsequent arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad spurred significant development. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Lordsburg served as a critical hub for regional mining operations, with various mines producing consistent outputs of precious and base metals until activity gradually declined in the mid-20th century.

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