Fluorite with Calcite, Sphalerite - image 1

Fluorite with Calcite, Sphalerite

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Lustrous translucent rosy purple crystals of fluorite to 1.5 cm are in size across the top of matrix rich and sphalerite. Colorless scalenohedral crystals of calcite are scattered throughout. Some damage present as seen. An attractive combination piece.Mining in the southern Illinois fluorspar district developed in the 19th century in Hardin and Pope counties along the Ohio River. The region became one of the most important sources of fluorite in the United States during the early to mid 20th century. Mines worked vein and replacement deposits hosted in limestone and produced fluorite along with associated minerals such as calcite, galena, and sphalerite. The fluorspar was widely used in steel making and chemical industries, and the district was also known for colorful fluorite specimens.