Lead with Pyrochroite

specimen number:
2063546

location:
Langban, Filipstan, Varmland, Sweden

description:
Fine old Swedish classic, crystallized native lead in a grouping 1.5 x 0.5 x 0.3 cm in size is set near the top of matrix nicely with black sparkling crystallized pyrochroite. In excellent condition. The specimen comes with a previous label from the top a. E. Seaman Mineralogical Museum at Michigan Technological University.

Located near Filipstad in Varmland, Sweden, the historic Langban mining district contains metamorphosed Proterozoic volcanic-sedimentary deposits rich in iron, manganese, and dolomite matrix rocks. Mining activity spanned hundreds of years from the fifteenth century until industrial operations ceased around 1972, initially targeting iron and later switching to manganese. Complex metamorphism and hydrothermal activity created an exceptional diversity of species, establishing Langban as one of the world's most famous mineral localities with nearly three hundred identified species. Native lead, which is extremely rare in its uncombined elemental state, was discovered underground here during the late nineteenth century. It occurs in cavities within dolomite and manganese-rich skarn, forming distinct metallic grey cubic or octahedral crystals, as well as wires and plates, making specimens highly prized by collectors worldwide.

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