Boulangerite with Pyrite, Sphalerite

specimen number:
2063453

location:
Noche Buena Mine, Zacatecas, Mexico

description:
Sparkling metallic been wispy acicular crystals of boulangerite in a cluster 1.5 x 1.0 cm in size on a matrix of crystalline pyrite and sphalerite. Classic material for the species and locality, most likely from the 1960s or 1970s. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Ray DeMark.

Located in the rugged mining region of Zacatecas, Mexico, the Noche Buena Mine is hosted within a complex geologic setting characterized by hydrothermal vein systems and intrusive-related mineralization cutting through sedimentary and metamorphic host rocks. The ore bodies feature rich metallic sulfosalts, base metal sulfides, and precious metal deposits embedded in gangue matrices like calcite and quartz. Historically recognized both as a localized mineral deposit and a prominent modern open-pit extraction site, the area has drawn intense interest from commercial mining enterprises seeking gold and silver, as well as mineral collectors searching for fine crystal specimens of sulfosalts and associated gangue minerals.

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