Datolite with Copper

specimen number:
8311120

location:
Central Mine, Keweenaw Co., Michigan, USA

description:
A wonderful and unique combination piece for this famous mining area, colorless crystals of translucent semi lustrous datolite measuring to 2.3 cm in size are covering the front side of matrix. A crystal grouping of native copper well-formed and measuring to 2.5 cm in height is coming off one edge of the matrix. In great condition. Previously from the collection of Don and Gloria Olson.

The Central Mine in Keweenaw County, Michigan, was one of the major copper mines on the Keweenaw Peninsula and began operations in 1854 after the discovery of rich native copper in amygdaloidal basalt of the Portage Lake Lava Series. Operated by the Central Mining Company, it became one of the most productive mines in the region during the 1860s and 1870s, with extensive underground workings developed along the copper bearing lode. The mine produced native copper along with associated minerals such as calcite, quartz, and epidote found in cavities within the volcanic rock. Operations declined toward the end of the 19th century and the mine closed in 1898, leaving it as an important part of Michigans copper mining history.

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