Fluorite with Sphalerite, Quartz

specimen number:
2013539

location:
Elmwood Mine, Smith Co., Tennessee, USA

description:
Lustrous gemmy cubic crystals of fluorite measuring to 2.0 cm on edge across the top of a quartz crystal covered breccia matrix with deep red to black crystallized translucent sphalerite. Aesthetic and in very good condition.

The Elmwood Mine, located near Carthage in Smith County, Tennessee, is a world-renowned source of museum-quality mineral specimens. Geologically, it is part of the Central Tennessee Zinc District, featuring Mississippi Valley-Type (MVT) mineralization hosted within the Ordovician-aged Saint Joe and Beekmantown Limestones. The ore bodies formed as hydrothermal fluids migrated through brecciated rock zones, creating large solution cavities and vugs where spectacular crystals could grow undisturbed. Historically, the mine began its primary period of operation in 1969 under the New Jersey Zinc Company, specifically targeting zinc ore. It has changed ownership several times over the decades, being operated by companies such as Pasminco and later Nyrstar. While the mine has faced various periods of temporary closure due to fluctuating metal prices, it remains an active industrial site today. The Elmwood Mine is legendary in the mineralogical community for its iconic specimens of calcite, fluorite, barite and sphalerite which are highly sought after for their sharp form and aesthetic brilliance.

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