Chalcopyrite, Quartz & Sphalerite (classic New Mexico) Kidwell Coll.

Item Description

Superb, sharp chalcopyrite crystals are aesthetically clustered atop the mounded combination ore matrix plate from the well-known extinct Ground Hog Mine. The 4.5 cm cluster of of lustrous brassy-yellow striated sphenoids is dominated by the large 2.1 cm crystal. Gorgeous iridescence on the crystals, depending on the light incidence adds beautiful color and character. The impressive rich sculptural small cabinet matrix includes many more chalcopyrites, lustrous black sphalerites and many glassy, transparent needle quartz crystals. There are many more chalcopyrites with quartz on the back, as a bonus. The Zn-Pb-Cu-Ag skarn deposit mine operated from about 1900 until 1982. Specimens of this outstanding quality were recovered in the 1960s and 70s, and were never common. Ex Al Kidwell Collection and acquired from J.R. Hotchkiss in 1977. Al was a well-known mineral collector and research geologist with Carter Oil Company and later Exxon Oil Company in Houston, Texas. The phosphate species Kidwellite was named in his honor in 1974. The Ground Hog mine was well-known for outstanding chalcopyrite specimens and this is a very aesthetic and rich combination.