Sphalerite with Marcasite, Dolomite

specimen number:
2171002

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. Sparkling resinous black crystals of sphalerite to 0.4 cm in size are very thick over the top of a dolomite crystal coated 10.0 x 5.5 x 4.0 cm matrix. Iridescent crystallized micro marcasite present as well. As with all specimens in this find, very minimal micro-chipping present. Overall in very good condition for one of these. Displays nicely. Shipping weight: 0.52 pounds.

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