Fluorite

specimen number:
8311237

location:
Yindu Mine, Inner Mongolia, China

description:
Lustrous sharp gemmy color zoned crystals of fluorite measuring to 1.0 cm on edge set nicely up on matrix. In good condition. This locality produces extremely attractive examples of the species.

The Yindu Mine, located in the Hexigten Banner of Chifeng City within Inner Mongolia, China, is a significant lead-zinc-silver deposit that has recently emerged as a premier source of world-class fluorite specimens. Geologically, the deposit is a hydrothermal vein system hosted within Jurassic volcanic rocks and sedimentary sequences, where mineralizing fluids formed large, open pockets. The fluorite from Yindu is highly distinctive, typically appearing as sharp, transparent to translucent cubic crystals that often exhibit a unique "sea-foam" green, mint green, or pale blue coloration. Many specimens are prized for their dramatic internal zoning and the presence of small, lustrous inclusions of sulfide minerals like arsenopyrite or boulangerite. Historically, while the region has seen various phases of exploration, the Yindu Mine began significant mechanized operations in the late 2000s and early 2010s. The site gained immense popularity in the international mineral market around 2018 and 2019 when extraordinary pockets of large, undamaged fluorite clusters were discovered. Today, the mine remains an active industrial operation and is considered one of the most important modern localities for high-quality Chinese fluorite due to its unique color palette and crystal perfection.

Questions about this specimen?
Send an email or call us: 314-341-1811.