Cryolite with Siderite

specimen number:
2351020

location:
Ivigtut, Arsuk Fjord, Greenland

description:
Classic specimen for the species and locality, colorless rich masses of cryolite with rhombohedral cleavages of siderite.

Located along Arsuk Fjord in southwest Greenland, Ivigtut hosted the worlds largest natural deposit of cryolite, a rare mineral formed within a unique intrusive pegmatite system. Following commercial exploitation that began in the nineteenth century, the open pit mine became a vital global source of the mineral, which was essential for industrial aluminum production and various manufacturing processes. Mining operations eventually ceased in 1987 after the primary reserves were depleted, transforming the site into an abandoned historic location and a notable destination for mineral specimen collectors.

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