Pyromorphite

specimen number:
2102241

location:
Mexico Mine, Caldbeck Fells, Cumbria, England, UK

description:
Lustrous yellow green crystals of pyromorphite close to 1.0 cm in length across this brecciated quartz rich matrix. In good condition.

The Mexico Vein, situated on the northern slopes of the Caldbeck Fells in Cumbria, England, is a classic locality within the Roughton Gill mining complex. Geologically, it is a polymetallic vein system hosted in the Ordovician-aged Skiddaw Group and Borrowdale Volcanic Group rocks, where primary sulfides like galena and chalcopyrite were subjected to intense secondary oxidation. This environment produced some of the most iconic British pyromorphite specimens, typically occurring as vibrant, lime-green to forest-green barrel-shaped crystals and moss-like aggregates on a quartz or barite matrix. Historically, the vein was primarily worked for lead and copper during the mid-19th century, with the most productive period occurring between the 1840s and 1860s under the management of various local mining concerns. Although industrial operations ceased by the late 1800s, the site remained a significant source for mineralogical study and specimen recovery throughout the 20th century. Today, pyromorphite from the Mexico Vein is highly regarded for its distinctive color and forms a vital part of the rich mining heritage of the Lake District.

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