Sphalerite with Dolomite

specimen number:
2013362

location:
Blue Goose Mine, Joplin, Missouri, USA

description:
Black to deep red slightly translucent crystals of sphalerite measuring to 2.0 cm in size coming off of a chert matrix with colorless crystals of dolomite and minor calcite. This is in really good condition. Some of the smaller crystals show very good transparency and red color, the type of crystal that the miners used to refer to as Ruby Jack sphalerite. Small crystals of marcasite are present as well.

The Blue Goose Mine in Joplin, Missouri was part of the Tri State Mining District, one of the worlds major lead and zinc producing regions during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The mine worked ore bodies of sphalerite and galena hosted in limestone using underground methods common in the district. Operations contributed to the rapid growth of Joplin as an important mining center. Like many mines in the area, the Blue Goose Mine later closed as ore reserves declined and mining activity in the district decreased.

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