Rhodochrosite with Quartz, Sphalerite, Pyrite

specimen number:
2312236

location:
Davidkovo, Banite, Smolyan, Bulgaria

description:
Pink crystal groupings of rhodochrosite measuring to 0.9 cm in diameter across the top of a crystallized quartz matrix with sphalerite and pyrite. Attractive combination piece that is in very good condition. Choice for the species and locality.

Davidkovo is a mountain village in the Central Rhodope Mountains of southern Bulgaria, within the Banite Municipality of Smolyan Province. Its history includes ancient Thracian and medieval settlements, with modern industrial exploration centered around the Davidkovo ore field. Geologically, the area is part of the Rhodope Massif, characterized by complex metamorphic and igneous basement rocks interspersed with hydrothermal vein systems. The local ore deposits are famous among mineral collectors for producing high-quality specimens of rhodochrosite, galena, sphalerite, and chalcopyrite. Mining operations in the district developed primarily during the 20th century under state-run industrial programs in socialist Bulgaria, before scaling down and ultimately closing toward the late 20th century.

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