Fluorite with Galena

specimen number:
1052874

location:
Alston Moor, Cumbria, England, UK

description:
Glassy gemmy cubic crystals of fluorite covering the top of a large matrix with galena. Minor pyrite present as well. Many of the fluorite crystals exhibit twinning. In good condition with some damage, I think still very good for such a large specimen that was collected in the 19th century. The specimen comes with an antique label as seen in the photos and at one time was part of the collection of Wilhelm Hoyer.

Alston Moor, located within the North Pennines of Cumbria, England, is a historic mining district with extensive lead and zinc extraction dating back to Roman times, experiencing its peak production during the 18th and 19th centuries under operations like the London Lead Company. Geologically, the area is characterized by the Carboniferous limestone cyclothems of the Alston Block, which were crosscut by major mineralized fault structures and hydrothermal vein systems associated with the underlying Weardale Granite. Mineralogically, the district is world-famous for its classic, highly aesthetic hydrothermal vein assemblages, most notably exceptional fluorite, baryte, quartz, and galena specimens that remain treasured centerpieces in mineral collections globally.

Wilhelm Hoyer (1849-1913) was a prominent German engineer, geologist, and mineral collector based in Hanover. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, his professional career in railway construction and regional geology allowed him to assemble a vast and scientifically important collection of minerals and fossils, particularly from northwestern Germany and classic European mining districts. Hoyer maintained close ties with academic institutions and contributed numerous papers to geological societies, and his extensive specimen collection became recognized for its meticulous historical documentation and antique labels that remain prized by modern collectors.

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