Fluorite (gemmy complex crystal)

Item Description

One of the most prolific mineral producing localities in Mexico is the famed Naica Mine. This locality has produced the most exemplary Gypsum crystals ever discovered (in the famous "Cave of Swords") but it has produced superb examples of many other mineral species, including some truly iconic Fluorites. Here we have a wonderful large miniature / small cabinet sized specimen featuring a superb quality, very gemmy complex crystal of Fluorite which is associated with lustrous black Sphalerite, metallic silvery Galena, golden striated cubes of Pyrite and white Calcite. The Fluorite crystal measures 2.1 cm features hundreds modifying faces on all sides. The Fluorite crystal is actually colorless, but it has an almost silvery-grey color at the center as the underlying sulfides can be seen when you look through it. This one was difficult to photograph, but it's very attractive in person and would make a fine addition to any Fluorite suite or a collection of minerals from Naica. I value this one for the quality and the fact these gem crystals are not easy to find on the market these days. From the collection of Richard ("Dick") Philip Hauck formerly of Bloomfield, New Jersey and now a resident of Franklin, New Jersey. Dick is an avid collector of minerals, books, and mining memorabilia, along with being an accomplished author in the mineral world. Arguably, his greatest claim to fame is being the co-founder of the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg, NJ. Dick purchased the land on which the Sterling Hill Mine resides in 1988, and the museum has been running strong since.