Millerite

specimen number:
2262039

location:
Friedrich Mine, Steckenstein, Mittelhof, Wissen, Altenkirchen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany

description:
Superb bright lustrous golden metallic crystals of millerite measuring to almost 0.5 cm in size across the top of matrix. In good condition, an excellent German classic.

The Friedrich Mine, located in the Steckenstein area of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, was a significant part of the Siegerland siderite mining district. Geologically, it consists of hydrothermal siderite veins hosted within Devonian sedimentary rocks, where the ore was enriched by various sulfide minerals during later stages of mineralization. Historically, the mine operated primarily during the 19th and early 20th centuries, with records indicating significant production periods between 1850 and its eventual closure in 1913. The site is world-renowned among mineralogists for producing exceptional specimens of millerite, which occurs there as brass-yellow, needle-like crystals often found in spray-like aggregates within vugs of the siderite matrix. These capillary crystals are considered some of the finest examples of the species in Europe due to their high luster and delicate forms. While the mine is no longer operational, it remains a classic locality for collectors of nickel minerals and Alpine-style vein assemblages.

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