Fluorite: Rosiclare, Hardin County, Illinois USA

Description

Species: Fluorite

Locality: Rosiclare, Southern Illinois Fluospar District, Hardin County, Illinois USA

Dimensions: 8 x 5 x 4.3 cm.

SOLD

This is a highly atypical, unusual specimen of complexly-stepped, water-clear fluorite crystals to 4 cm on brownish, botryoidal calcite from the Rosiclare District in Southern Illinois’ fames fluorite mining district. From the collection of Jay M. Reese, this fine and unique fluorite was likely mined in the mid-20th century from one of the many small vein-type deposits which were exploited in the district before the “major mines” like Minerva #1 and Annabel Lee came on-line. Almost reminiscent of fluorite from Penfield New York or Dal’Negorsk Russia, this specimen has wonderfully complex, stepped, glassy crystals which are as close to colorless as I have seen in high-quality Illinois fluorite. The crystals are in fine condition and contrast nicely with the calcite matrix. Rare! Annette Slade photo.