Siderite casts after Calcite with Sphalerite

Item Description

Nicely grouped on a contrasting Sphalerite matrix are numerous, barrel-shaped epimorphs of Siderite after Calcite from Aggeneys in South Africa (the siderite, mixed with sphalerite actually, has replaced the original calcite crystals while retaining their shape). The Broken Hill Mine here was exploited for lead, zinc and copper and during a brief period in its mine life produced these great epimorphs of Siderite replacing Calcite. These stubby scalenohedral crystals are an appealing mocha color with dark coffee colored highlights around the edges on some. The crystals display a satin luster do to the fine-grained nature of the Siderite replacement. There are close to two dozen crystals here from 0.7 to 1.2 cm in a relatively tight grouping, but with distinct crystal form. These are from a rare, one time find from over 20 years ago. This piece shows one small compromised crystals that reveals the hollow character of these epimorphs. A very good pseudomorph specimen from this locality.