Stannite

specimen number:
1052317

location:
Oruro, Bolivia

description:
Rich metallic masses of stannite throughout matrix. Some micro crystals are present. The specimen comes with an antique label as shown at the end of the video, this label noting that the piece was collected around the year 1850. Neat historical specimen.Stannite from Oruro, Bolivia occurs in the famous Bolivian tin belt, where hydrothermal vein deposits related to Tertiary volcanic activity have produced major tin and silver ores since the 19th century. The Oruro district hosts polymetallic veins cutting volcanic and sedimentary rocks, with cassiterite as the principal tin ore accompanied by sulfide minerals including stannite, pyrite, sphalerite, and galena. Stannite typically appears as dark metallic gray masses or crystals within tin rich veins and is associated with other base metal sulfides. Mining in Oruro played a central role in Bolivias economy, and specimens of stannite from the district are valued for their connection to one of the worlds classic tin producing regions.

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