Sphalerite with Chalcopyrite, Dolomite

specimen number:
2062967

location:
Treece, Tri-State District, Cherokee Co., Kansas, USA

description:
Classic specimen from the Tri-State District with sharp non-lustrous black crystals of sphalerite measuring to 2.0 in size across the top of a dolomite crystal covered chert matrix. Small golden crystals of chalcopyrite are scattered throughout. This is in great condition. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Ray DeMark

Treece, located in Cherokee County, Kansas, sits within the historic Tri-State Mining District, where mineralization occurs primarily in Paleozoic carbonate strata such as Mississippian limestone and chert. The region became a booming hub for underground ore extraction during the early 20th century, fueling intense industrial activity through World War I and World War II. Prospectors, miners, and mineral collectors historically targeted the extensive network of local shafts and chat piles for abundant sulfide and secondary carbonate specimens. Decades of intensive subterranean excavation eventually destabilized the land and left behind significant environmental challenges, leading to the town's eventual federal buyout and depopulation.

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