Calcite with Quartz, Pyrite

specimen number:
2062977

location:
Naica, Chihuahua, Mexico

description:
Sharp large rhombohedral crystals of opaque sparkling white calcite to 3.2 cm on edge across the top of matrix and accented nicely with small crystals of quartz and pyrite. This is in good condition. Classic for this locality and species. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Ray DeMark.

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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