Fluorite with Sphalerite, Quartz, Calcite

specimen number:
2013411

location:
Davis-Dearfoff Mine, Hardin Co., Illinois, USA

description:

An extremely fine and attractive combination specimen from this important locality with rosy purple lustrous gemmy crystals of fluorite to 1.5 cm on edge set nicely across a crystallized quartz matrix with lustrous black crystals of sphalerite, these also measuring to 1.5 cm on edge. Small crystals of calcite are scattered throughout. This is in super condition.

The Davis Deardorff Mine in Hardin County, Illinois, was part of the Illinois Kentucky Fluorspar District, a major source of fluorite, lead, and zinc in the United States. Mining in the area developed in the late 19th century and continued into the 20th century, working vein deposits in limestone. The mine produced fluorite along with associated minerals such as galena and sphalerite. Specimens from the Davis Deardorff Mine are well known among collectors for colorful fluorite and classic mineral associations from this important district.

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