Sphalerite with Marcasite, Quartz

specimen number:
2171016

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 front side of this 20.0 x 16.0 x 8.0 cm matrix is covered with glistening micro quartz crystals, beautiful iridescent micro marcasite crystals, and spherical shape sphalerite crystals to 2.0 cm. Very minimal and sparse micro-chipping up on the sphalerite as seen, for this find this one is in excellent condition. Sits up perfectly by itself for display. Shipping weight: 6.1 pounds.

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