Fluorite from West Pasture Mine, England, UK - image 1
Fluorite from West Pasture Mine, England, UK - image 2

Fluorite from West Pasture Mine, England, UK

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Lustrous gemmy cubic crystals of fluorite measuring to 3.5 cm in size covering the top of matrix. Brown crystals of siderite and golden chalcopyrite are scattered throughout. Some damage present, still in good condition considering the age in size of this piece. Brightly fluorescent. The West Pasture Mine, located near Stanhope in Weardale, County Durham, England, was a notable producer within the Northern Pennine Orefield. Geologically, the mine exploited mineralized veins hosted in Carboniferous limestones and sandstones, where hydrothermal fluids deposited rich layers of galena and fluorite. The site is particularly famous among mineralogists for its exceptional green fluorite crystals, which are often transparent and exhibit a distinct twinning habit. Historically, mining and quarrying in the West Pasture area began in the 19th century as part of the broader regional effort to extract lead ore, though it later became an important source of fluorspar for the steel and chemical industries. The most significant periods of modern operation occurred during the mid-20th century, specifically between the 1940s and the early 1960s, before declining economic conditions led to its closure. While the physical infrastructure has largely vanished, the mine remains a significant historical reference point for collectors of English fluorite.

Product details

SizeLarge Cabinet
Dimensions24.0 x 20.0 x 10.0 cm
Added on05/18/2026

Owners

Unknown Owner
Current owner
Acquired
Oct 2026

Learn more

Fluorite
Mineral guide
Learn about Fluorite
calcium fluoride with a dazzling color range, cubic and octahedral crystals, and UV fluorescence; prized by collectors for Blue John banding.
Fluorite
Regional guide
Fluorite from West Pasture Mine
Contribute
Locality guide
West Pasture Mine
A collector's guide to West Pasture Mine, UK: its geology, mining history and notable minerals, illustrated with the 48 specimens documented from this locality on EarthWonders.