Sphalerite with Barite, Marcasite, Quartz

specimen number:
2171008

location:
Washington Co., Missouri, USA

description:

Mining in this Missouri county first commenced in the early to mid 1700s. Most underground mining was finished by the late 1800s to early 1900s. The area was mined for lead. In later days surface deposits were mined some for lead but mainly for barite to be used in the oil industry. The specimen is from a new find. The collectors at this time will not divulge the exact locality, however I'm quite sure that this is coming from an old underground mine. In 40 years of collecting minerals in this state, I have not seen anything quite like this. The top side of this 30.0 x 28.0 x 14.0 cm matrix is covered with beautiful greenish iridescent micro marcasite crystals. Scattered throughout our spherical shaped sparkling black crystal groupings of sphalerite measuring to 1.5 cm in size. A snow white crystallized grouping of barite 9.0 cm across present on one edge. There is some chipping to some of the sphalerite crystals, this very typical of this find. Overall I think in good condition and a neat attractive large Museum size piece for this likely limited find. Shipping weight: 20 pounds.

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