Chalcopyrite with Calcite, Hematite

specimen number:
2013450

location:
Pea Ridge Mine, Washington Co., Missouri, USA

description:

Classic Missouri specimen with golden lustrous crystals of chalcopyrite measuring to 1.0 cm in size across the top of scalenohedral calcite crystals that are dusted with hematite. In great condition, an excellent miniature that certainly dates to the 1970s.

The Pea Ridge Mine, located in Washington County, Missouri, is a notable iron ore deposit within the St. Francois Mountains and has also gained attention for its association with rare earth elements. Discovered in the mid 20th century, the mine was developed as an underground operation to extract magnetite rich iron ore from a Precambrian igneous complex. Production began in the 1960s and continued for several decades, supplying high grade iron ore for industrial use. In addition to iron, the deposit contains significant concentrations of rare earth minerals and other unusual species, making it of interest for both economic and scientific study. Although iron mining operations ceased in the early 2000s, the Pea Ridge Mine remains important as a potential resource for rare earth elements and as a unique geological locality.

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