Pyromorphite (2 generations) on Quartz (rare Idaho piece)

Item Description

Two generations of pyromorphite prisms cover this exceptional and rich small cabinet from the Sherman Mine, not far from the famous Bunker Hill Mine, which has produced so many world class pyromorphites. The crystals have a distinct look, different from the many varieties from the Bunker Hill Mine and specimens are extremely uncommon from the Sherman Mine, compared to the prolific Bunker Hill Mine. Striking radiating starbursts of larger second generation spindles, to about 8 mm, are attractively scattered on the rich carpet of smaller first generation crystals, that cover the blocky quartzite matrix. All of the hoppered spindles are olive-green and have lighter yellow-green tips, a characteristic of some Sherman Mine pyromorphites. The mine produced much pyromorphite and the entire area caved in 1973. Lead-silver mining began in 1885 in the District. See the 1982 Mineralogical Record Coeur d'Alene District article in Vol. 13, No. 5. Old, rare, rich and outstanding pyromorphite from this locality, probably from the 1960s.