Barite with Galena, Pyrite, Calcite

specimen number:
2062422

location:
Naica, Chihuahua, Mexico

description:
From the early 1970s, nice combination specimen with clear yellowish crystals of barite to 0.8 cm in size on matrix with crystallized galena, pyrite, and calcite. In good condition.

The Naica mining district in Chihuahua, Mexico, originated with its first recorded claim in 1794, transitioned through intermittent operations and modern industrial development by companies like Industrias Penoles, and suspended operations indefinitely in October 2015 due to uncontrollable underground flooding. Geologically, the deposit sits within an Early Cretaceous carbonate sequence of limestones and dolostones intruded by a hidden magmatic body. This intrusive heat source maintained a deep, mineral-saturated thermal aquifer for hundreds of thousands of years, driving hydrothermal ore deposition (lead, zinc, and silver) as well as the specialized dissolution and recrystallization cycle that formed the world-famous giant selenite gypsum crystals found within its underground cavities.

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