Ullmannite

specimen number:
2262046

location:
Strassberg, Harzgerode, Harz, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany

description:
Rich metallic masses throughout matrix. Good example for the species from this famous German locality.

The Strassberg mining district, situated in the Lower Harz region of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, is a historic center for the extraction of fluorite, lead, and silver. Geologically, the area is part of the Harz Mountains and features a complex system of hydrothermal veins hosted within Devonian and Carboniferous sedimentary rocks, such as shales and graywackes. The mineralization is characterized by multiple stages, including early sulfide deposition and later fluorite-heavy phases associated with the tectonic uplift of the Harz block. Historically, mining in Strassberg dates back to the 15th century, with the most intensive periods of activity occurring between the 18th century and the mid-20th century. The district is well-known for producing excellent specimens of ullmannite, a nickel antimony sulfide mineral. At Strassberg, ullmannite typically occurs as steel-grey to silver-white metallic grains or cubic crystals, often found in association with other sulfides like galena and chalcopyrite within the vein quartz or carbonate matrix.

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