$225Median
612Sold (12 mo)
$2,000Last sale
Sphalerite from Hill-Ledford Mine, Cave-in-Rock Mining Sub-District, Hardin County, Illinois, USA
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Classic old specimen from southern Illinois with rosy purple mostly transparent crystals of fluorite to 4.0 cm on edge across the top of a large breccia matrix with small crystals of sphalerite and galena. The matrix is coated with microscopic quartz. A fine old timer. Very little cleaving present. Overall in good condition.The Hill-Ledford Mine, located near Cave-in-Rock in Hardin County, Illinois, was a significant operation within the historic Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District. Geologically, the mine targeted bedded replacement deposits, or mantos, situated along the Sparks Hill Fault system where hydrothermal fluids replaced specific Mississippian-aged limestone layers, primarily within the Ste. Genevieve Formation. These fluorine-rich fluids originated from deep-seated magmatic sources associated with the Hicks Dome structure, precipitating massive fluorite along with secondary sulfides and carbonates. Historically, the mine began operations in the late 1940s to early 1950s and served as a vital source of metallurgical and acid-grade fluorspar for decades. It remained active through the mid-20th century but, like many mines in the region, faced increasing economic pressure from foreign imports, eventually leading to its closure in the late 1970s. Despite its industrial focus, the mine is remembered by the mineralogical community for producing exceptional crystal-lined pockets that provided a window into the complex geochemical history of the Ohio River Valley.
Product details
SizeLarge Cabinet
Dimensions18.5 x 14.0 x 9.5 cm
Added on05/22/2026
LocalityUSA, Illinois, Hill-Ledford Mine
Current owner
Unknown Owner
- Acquired
- Oct 2026
Previous owners
| Date | Collector | Acquisition price |
|---|---|---|
| — | Weinrich Minerals | Not disclosed |
Learn more
Mineral guide
Learn about Sphalerite
a spectrum of colors and crystal forms, resinous to adamantine luster, gemmy on matrix; prized by collectors for iconic localities and displays.Regional guide
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