Sphalerite on Drusy Quartz (Walt Gaylord Coll.)

Item Description

Lustrous, rubyjack sphalerite crystal clusters and discrete crystals are dramatically set on the two-sided, wedge of sparkly, drusy quartz-covered limestone matrix on this very impressive LARGE CABINET specimen from the less common and now-closed Cumberland Mine of Tennessee. The sphalerite crystals reach 2.5 cm. The larger of the two clusters is 8.5 cm across and both of these clusters are in execellent shape, with only very trivial edgewear. A couple of broken smaller crystals are a very modest detraction. The Cumberland is very near to the famous Elmwood Mine and was not known as a great specimen producer. Quartz is rare from the Cumberland, so this is an exceptional combination specimen from this locale. Ex Walt Gaylord Collection, mine geologist for the Elmwood and Cumberland Mines. His note indicates, that the piece was collected in 1992 from O8N #2 within the mine. Valued at $1200-1500 for size, quality and rare combination.