Galena with Siderite, Quartz

specimen number:
2063749

location:
Neudorf, Harzgerode, Harz, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany

description:
Classic German specimen with lustrous crystals of galena, the prominent crystal 2.0 cm across, set up on a crystallized quartz matrix that is coated with rhombohedral crystals of siderite measuring to 1.2 cm in size. This is in good condition. The specimen has an old label glued to the backside and at one time was part of the collection at the University of New Mexico. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Ray DeMark.

Neudorf, situated near Harzgerode in the classic Harz Mountains mining region of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, is world famous for its low-temperature hydrothermal vein deposits rich in silver and lead. Mining activity in the district dates back to the Middle Ages, expanding dramatically in the nineteenth century as underground operations such as the Pfaffenberg and Luise mines tapped into mineralized fault zones cutting through Paleozoic slate and graywacke. The locality achieved iconic status among mineralogists for producing some of the finest galena specimens ever discovered, characterized by exceptionally sharp, highly lustrous cubic and cuboctahedral crystals often perched on contrasting siderite or quartz matrix. Although commercial mining in the Neudorf district ceased in the early twentieth century, its classic lead ore specimens remain prized highlights in museum collections and historical mineral assemblages worldwide.

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