Tetrahedrite

specimen number:
1052468

location:
Horhausen, Altenkirchen-Flammersfeld, Altenkirchen, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany

description:
Metallic lustrous crystals of tetrahedrite measuring to 0.5 cm in size on matrix with crystallized siderite. In good condition.

Horhausen in Germany is part of a historic mining region in the Rhenish Massif that was developed primarily for lead, zinc, and silver from hydrothermal vein deposits. Mining activity in the area dates back several centuries, with significant development during the 18th and 19th centuries when underground workings were driven to follow mineralized veins cutting through Devonian sedimentary rocks. The geology is characterized by fault controlled veins where mineral rich fluids deposited sulfide minerals such as galena and sphalerite along with associated gangue minerals like quartz and calcite. Although large scale mining has long since ceased, Horhausen remains of interest for its historical significance and as an example of classic European vein type mineralization.

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