Fluorite

T

The Mineralogical Museum, University of Delaware

0 for sale

Fluorite, 15.2 cm, from Naica, Chihuahua, Mexico. The Naica mine is one of the most famous Mexican mineral localities. Silver was discovered there in 1794, but mining did not begin until 1830 due to danger from hostile Indians, a threat that lasted until the 1890s. By the 20th century, 11 mantos and 50 chimneys were mined. Fluorite has been a consistently collected mineral by miners, who sell specimens to mineral dealers. Naica is also renowned for the “Cave of Swords” and other caverns with enormous gypsum crystals.