Fluorite from Denton Mine, Harris Creek Mining Sub-District, Hardin County, Illinois, USA

Ex-Ross Lillie Collection ... RCL #2540

Beautiful cluster of light bluish purple mostly gemmy cubic fluorite crystals. This is in terrific condition all around with no points of attachment. Minor chalcopyrite present. This was collected in 1982.

The Denton Mine, located in Hardin County, Illinois, was a major underground operation within the famous Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District. Put into operation in 1981 at a depth of 640 feet, it became world-renowned among mineral collectors for producing exceptional, high-grade fluorite crystals. Geologically, the region features Mississippian-age limestone host rocks that were shaped by complex faulting and tectonic activity. Hot, mineral-rich hydrothermal fluids circulated through these fractures, eventually cooling and precipitating deposits of fluorite, barite, galena, and sphalerite in open cavities and veins.

Although commercial mining has long since ceased in the area, the mine remains legendary for the aesthetic quality and vibrant color zoning of its mineral specimens.