Calcite with Gypsum

specimen number:
2292163

location:
Santa Eulalia, Chihuahua, Mexico

description:
Classic specimen from this locality, scalenohedral crystals of calcite translucent in measuring to 1.5 cm in size coming off matrix with colorless crystallized gypsum. In good condition with minimal cleaving present.

The Santa Eulalia mining district, located near Chihuahua City in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico, is a world-class polymetallic silver-lead-zinc deposit famous for producing exceptional carbonate-hosted replacement specimens. Geologically, the district is divided into the West Camp and East Camp, both featuring massive manto and chimney replacement bodies formed by the intrusion of Tertiary calc-alkaline magmas into thick Cretaceous limestone formations. Hydrothermal fluids dissolved the limestone host rocks and filled the massive cavities with primary galena, sphalerite, and pyrrhotite, while subsequent oxidation created extensive cavern zones rich in spectacular secondary gypsum, aragonite, and calcite crystals. Silver mining at the locality began following an official Spanish discovery in 1703, sparking centuries of continuous development that transformed the region into one of the most productive silver mining centers in history. While major corporate operations peaked under companies like ASARCO during the twentieth century, several sections of the underground complexes, including the San Antonio and Buenavista mines, have maintained active, intermittent commercial and specialized specimen production extending into the 2020s.

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