Hematite

specimen number:
2062162

location:
Sherwood Mine, Iron Co., Michigan, USA

description:

A large water polished example of hematite from this classic old locality. Good specimens from this locality are rarely seen available today.

The Sherwood Mine, located in Iron River within Iron County, Michigan, was a significant producer in the Menominee Iron Range. Geologically, the mine targeted the Paleoproterozoic Riverton Iron Formation, where complex folding and faulting created deep troughs of enriched iron ore. The deposit primarily consisted of goethite and hematite, often found in association with chert and siderite within the highly deformed bedrock. Historically, the Inland Steel Company began developing the site in 1941, with the first shipments of ore occurring in 1943. The mine was known for its deep underground operations and remained a steady producer during the mid-20th century industrial expansion. It operated continuously for over thirty years until changing economic conditions and the depletion of accessible high-grade ore led to its closure in 1971. Today, the site is recognized for its historical role in the Iron River district, and its former workings are part of the extensive legacy of the regional mining industry.

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