Schalenblende (polished)

Item Description

This is a big attractive specimen of what has been referred to historically as "Schalenblende". Now this name does not refer to a specific single species, but rather a layered mixture of Wurtzite, Sphalerite, Pyrite/Marcasite and / or Galena. The material translates from German into "shell ore", and is considered more of a rock type than a mineral itself. This material really looks organic to me, and has a distinctive layered/banded appearance. Schalenblende is found in various European localities, and some of the best known examples are those from multiple mines in Olkusz County, Poland. This piece is a polished slice from the Olkusz Mine, and weighs 269 grams. These specimens are rarely seen on the market these days, and their beautiful banded colored layers make for some truly eye-catching specimen.