Sphalerite (ex Brian Kosnar Collection)

Item Description

The Patch Mine near Central City in Colorado is one of the most classic localities on the front range. Gilpin County is the site of the first discovery of Gold in Colorado, and the Patch Mine (often referred to as the Glory Hole Mine) is a still standing landmark just southwest of Central City. This piece features a pair of classic, sharp, opaque, modified tetrahedral Sphalerite crystals with minor associated tan Siderite. The Sphalerite crystals have a greenish patina, which is very distinctive for this mine. Colorado collectors will tell you that obtaining specimens from Gilpin County is very difficult because the vast majority of the mining took place before WWII and good quality pieces simply are not around. A good reference specimen of this beloved material.