Sphalerite with Chalcopyrite, Quartz, Calcite

specimen number:
2072091

location:
Boldut Mine, Cavnic, Maramures Co., Romania

description:
Lustrous black crystals of sphalerite across the top of a chalcopyrite matrix with crystals of quartz and calcite. Attractive combination piece from this prolific locality. In good condition with minimal micro-damage present.

The Boldut Mine is located in the Cavnic mining district of Maramures County, Romania, situated within the Gutai Mountains of the Eastern Carpathians. Geologically, it is a classic epithermal vein deposit formed during the Neogene Period due to intense volcanic activity. The mineralization occurs as a complex system of steeply dipping hydrothermal veins hosted in volcanic rocks, such as andesites and rhyolites, as well as surrounding sedimentary strata. Historically, mining in the Cavnic area dates back to Roman times, but the Boldut sector became a major focal point for industrial production of lead, zinc, silver, and gold during the 19th and 20th centuries. For mineral collectors, Boldut is legendary for its incredibly diverse and aesthetic specimens, particularly its delicate pink rhodochrosite rhombohedrons and "saddle-shaped" dolomite crystals. The mine is also famous for producing high-quality sulfides like tetrahedrite, galena, and sphalerite, often found in sparkling druse or as sharp, well-formed crystals in open vugs. Although large-scale industrial mining ceased in the early 2000s, Boldut remains a premier European locality known for its unique paragenetic sequences and the exceptional luster of its mineral samples.

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