Fluorite with Hematite

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Attractive gemmy blue cubic crystals of fluorite averaging 0.3 cm in size covering most of one side of a hematite matrix. This is in good condition. The opposite side of the matrix is covered with sparkling micaceous platy crystals of hematite. An attractive and choice example for the species from this famous British locality. The Florence Mine at Egremont in Cumbria, England was one of the principal iron ore mines in the West Cumberland iron field, a district known for rich hematite deposits hosted in Carboniferous limestone. Mining in the area expanded during the 19th century to supply iron for the rapidly growing British steel industry, and Florence Mine itself was developed in the early 20th century with deep underground workings. The mine later became the last deep iron ore mine operating in Europe before closing in 2007. Today the site is preserved as a heritage location and is also known among mineral collectors for specimens of hematite and associated minerals from this historic English iron mining district.