Fluorite on Sphalerite: W.L. Davis-Deardorff mine, Cave-in-Rock, Illinois USA

Description

Species: Fluorite on Sphalerite

Locality: W.L. Davis-Deardorff Mine, Ozark-Mahoning group, Cave-in-Rock, Cave-In-Rock Sub-District, Hardin Co., Illinois, USA

Dimensions: 14 x 8 x 5.5 cm.

SOLD

The W.L. Davis-Deardorff Mine was one of, if not the premier specimen producer in the iconic Southern Illinois Fluorspar District in the first half of the 20th century. According to economic mineralogist Allen V. Heyl, “The Deardorff mine was the specimen mine of the 1930’s – 1950’s. It closed in the early 1960’s.” Fine fluorite specimens from this mine are often associated with crystallized sphalerite and quartz, and are highly sought-after today. This fine example could pass for an Elmwood, Tennessee specimen at first glance, with sharp, undamaged rasberry-violet fluorite crystals to 3 cm on lustrous, well-crystallized black sphalerite matrix. The condition and aesthetics of this large cabinet-size specimen are excellent. Ex. Albert “Bundy” Beres and Bob Batic collections. Annette Slade photo. Classic!