Sphalerite with Marcasite, Quartz, Barite

specimen number:
2171024

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. Glistening deep black hemispherical shaped crystal groupings of sphalerite to 2.0 cm in diameter scattered over the top of this 8.0 x 6.0 x 3.5 cm iridescent micro marcasite crystal matrix with white barite and minimal quartz. Very minimal micro-chipping present is seen, for this find, this is one of better quality in terms of damage. Shipping weight: 0.43 pounds.

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