Mercury (stabalized)

specimen number:
2262165

location:
Socrates Mine, Sonoma Co., California, USA

description:

Small rounded bright metallic native mercury to 0.2 cm in size on matrix. This has been stabilized across the top of the matrix. The specimen comes with a previous label as shown at the end of the video and dates back to the 1960s.

The Socrates Mine, located in the Pine Flat district of Sonoma County, California, is a notable historical producer of mercury situated within the Mayacmas Mountains. Geologically, the deposit is hosted in the Franciscan Complex, where hydrothermal fluids deposited cinnabar and native mercury within silica-carbonate rocks and serpentinite. This site is particularly famous among mineralogists for producing exceptional specimens of native mercury and the rare mercury-bearing mineral socratesite. Historically, mining and quarrying at the Socrates Mine began in the early 1870s following its discovery in 1861, with the most significant periods of production occurring during the late 19th century and again during the World Wars. Although operations were intermittent throughout the early 20th century, the mine was essentially shuttered by the 1960s as domestic demand for mercury decreased and environmental regulations became more stringent.

Frazziers Minerals and Lapidary, located in Berkeley, California, was a legendary destination for mineral collectors and lapidary enthusiasts for several decades. Geologically, the shop was known for its diverse and high-quality inventory that spanned the global mineralogical spectrum, offering everything from rare systematic species to aesthetic display specimens and rough cutting material. Historically, the business was operated by Si and Ann Frazier, who were widely respected experts in the field, contributing significant knowledge to the mineralogical community through their writing and specialized expertise in quartz and pseudomorphs. The shop served as a vital hub for the San Francisco Bay Area mineral community from the mid-20th century until its closure, providing a curated selection of specimens that often featured detailed historical or locality data.

Questions about this specimen?
Send an email or call us: 314-341-1811.