Galena

specimen number:
2102214

location:
West Fork Mine, Viburnum Trend, Reynolds Co., Missouri, USA

description:

Bright lustrous sharp cubic crystals of galena measuring to 3.5 cm on edge across the top of a brecciated matrix with dolomite and chalcopyrite. This is in really good condition considering the size and number of crystals present. From the early 1990s.

The West Fork Mine, located in Reynolds County, Missouri, is a significant component of the world-class Viburnum Trend, also known as the New Lead Belt. Geologically, the deposit is a classic Mississippi Valley-Type (MVT) occurrence, where ore minerals were precipitated within the Cambrian-aged Bonneterre Formation. The mineralization primarily consists of galena, sphalerite, and chalcopyrite, which replaced the host dolostone or filled primary porosity within ancient reef and grainstone facies. Historically, the mine was developed by ASARCO and began production in 1985 after several years of exploratory drilling and shaft sinking. It stands as one of the most modern and mechanized underground lead-zinc mines in the United States. Throughout its history, the operation has transitioned through various owners, including the Doe Run Company, and has remained a vital contributor to domestic lead production for several decades. Beyond its industrial importance, the West Fork Mine is noted by mineralogists for producing exceptional crystallized specimens of galena and translucent, honey-colored sphalerite that are highly valued in the collector community.

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