Pyrite on Sphalerite
Unknown Owner
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Micro crystals of pyrite mostly covering a large cluster of sphalerite crystals. In good condition.
The Ballard Mine, located southwest of Baxter Springs in Cherokee County, Kansas, was a lead and zinc producer within the Picher Field of the Tri-State Mining District. Geologically, the mine is hosted within Mississippian-age cherty limestones and dolomitic limestones belonging to the Boone Formation. The primary ore minerals, sphalerite and galena, were deposited by low-temperature hydrothermal fluids in breccias, solution cavities, and fractures within these carbonate rocks. Historically, the mine operated during the mid-twentieth century, with peak production occurring from the 1930s through the 1960s, including contributions of metals during World War II. Following the cessation of mining in the district around 1970, the site became part of the Cherokee County Superfund area due to residual heavy metal contamination from mining waste.
Product details
SpeciesPyrite, Sphalerite
SizeSmall Cabinet
Dimensions8.0 x 6.0 x 4.0 cm
Added on07/18/2026
LocalityUSA, Kansas, Ballard Mine
Known provenance
| Date | Collector | Acquisition price |
|---|---|---|
| 08/2026 | Unknown Owner | Not disclosed |
| — | Weinrich Minerals | Not disclosed |
Learn more
Mineral guide
Learn about Pyrite
brilliant metallic luster, perfect cubes, and golden color; collectors prize affordable pieces to top specimens, with Navajún and Huanzala localities.Regional guide
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