Sphalerite with Fluorite, Quartz

specimen number:
2013455

location:
Elmwood Mine, Smith Co., Tennessee, USA

description:
Beautiful combination specimen from this prolific locality. A grouping of lustrous sphalerite crystals 5.5 cm across are set nicely up on a crystallized quartz covered matrix. Gemmy crystals of fluorite are present as well. This is in super condition.

The Elmwood Mine, located in Smith County, Tennessee, is one of the most famous mineral localities in the United States, particularly known for its production of zinc from Mississippi Valley type deposits. Mining began in the mid 20th century and has been carried out through extensive underground workings that follow ore bodies within limestone host rock. In addition to its economic importance, the Elmwood Mine is world renowned among collectors for its exceptional mineral specimens, especially fluorite, calcite, sphalerite, and barite. Fluorite from Elmwood is often found in well formed cubic crystals with colors ranging from purple to yellow, sometimes exhibiting color zoning, while calcite commonly occurs in complex crystal forms with high luster. The combination of large scale mining and favorable geologic conditions has produced some of the finest specimens known, making the Elmwood Mine a classic and highly regarded locality.

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