Fluorite with Siderite, Calcite

specimen number:
1052358

location:
Weardale, Co. Durham, England, UK

description:

A large lustrous partly gemmy cubic crystal of fluorite in a cluster with several smaller crystals. Accented nicely with small crystals of calcite and siderite. Incredibly fluorescent. Slight damage present, this still in very good condition. The specimen comes with an antique label as shown at the end of the video. This label dates the specimen to the late 19th century or early 20th century. Impressive crystal size for the species from this famous mining district. Minor galena is present.  The photo is taken in direct sunlight.

Mining in Weardale, County Durham, England has a long history that dates back several centuries and was centered mainly on lead extraction from hydrothermal veins cutting Carboniferous limestone and sandstone. The district became one of the most important lead mining regions in northern England during the 18th and 19th centuries, with numerous underground mines operated by companies such as the London Lead Company. Galena was the principal ore mineral and often contained significant silver, while the area also produced well known mineral specimens including fluorite, calcite, and barite. Although most mining declined by the early 20th century, Weardale remains famous among mineral collectors for its colorful fluorite.

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