Galena with Fluorite

specimen number:
2013421

location:
Annabel Lee Mine, Hardin Co., Illinois, USA

description:
Lustrous crystal grouping of galena perched attractively atop matrix with crystallized fluorite. Collected in the mid 1980s, this is in super condition all around. Excellent for the species from this mining district. Minor sphalerite is present.

The Annabel Lee 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 began in the late 19th century and expanded in the early 20th century as underground workings were developed in vein deposits within limestone. The mine produced fluorite along with galena and sphalerite from hydrothermal mineralization. Like many mines in the district, activity declined after the mid 20th century as demand decreased, and the mine eventually closed, leaving it as part of the historic fluorspar mining heritage of southern Illinois.

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