Fluorite

specimen number:
2013529

location:
Mahoning #7 Mine, Hardin Co., Illinois, USA

description:

An incredibly beautiful miniature with golden yellow lustrous gem crystals of fluorite in a cluster with light blue color zoning. This is in super condition. Collected in the mid 1970s. Minor chalcopyrite present as inclusions.

The Mahoning Number 7 Mine, located in the Cave-in-Rock district of Hardin County, Illinois, was a premier producer of fluorspar and byproduct zinc and lead. Geologically, the deposit consists of bedded-replacement ore bodies within Mississippian-aged limestone, specifically the Renault and Levias formations. These deposits formed as fluorine-rich hydrothermal fluids migrated through faults and replaced favorable limestone layers, creating expansive horizontal ore zones and pockets filled with exceptionally well-crystallized minerals. Historically, the mine began its primary period of operation in the 1940s to support the intense industrial and military demand of the World War II era. It remained a highly productive site under the Mahoning Mining Company and later the Ozark-Mahoning Company until its closure in the mid 20th century as deeper and more expansive workings were developed in the district. The Mahoning Number 7 is celebrated by collectors for producing iconic, lustrous fluorite cubes, often exhibiting deep purple or blue amber zoning, which are frequently associated with brassy chalcopyrite inclusions and sharp sphalerite crystals.

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