Fluorite with Galena

Item Description

A truly eye-catching and aesthetic display specimen from the famed Denton Mine in Southern Illinois. The Fluorites from this area are some of the most well-known, celebrated and now highly sought after examples of the species from any US locality. Now that mining has been shut down completely in the Harris Creek District, these Fluorites have disappeared from the market. As is often the case when a locality closes, collectors will try to get their hands on specimens as they know that no more will ever be found. This piece features a predominant cubic crystal of purple Fluorite measuring 2.5 cm on edge, with superb internal gemminess, which is surrounded by smaller Fluorites which gently grade in color to a light golden hue at the baes. The highlight of the piece is an association of bright silvery metallic cuboctahedral Galena crystals on the front side, giving the piece contrast and character. You don't even need any backlighting to see how gemmy the Fluorites are, and the main crystal sits beautifully atop the specimen, creating a very showy display piece. Additionally, the specimen sits wonderfully on its own without the aid of a base or clay. No major damage I can see anywhere, only a few small imperfections. A beautiful example of these classic Fluorites. This piece comes with a label valuing the piece at $4200 for reference.
Ex Ross Lillie collection (#RCL1244), who personally collected the piece in 1984.