$300Median
792Sold (12 mo)
$200Last sale
Updated 1d ago
Sphalerite with Marcasite, Chalcopyrite
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Ships from USA
An attractive piece with crystals of sphalerite measuring as large as 2.8 cm in size on matrix with chalcopyrite and marcasite. Some of the smaller sphalerite crystals, these to 0.8 cm in size are a brilliant deep red in color and show good translucency. Slight damage present as seen, still quite attractive for this old timer.
The Ballard Mine, located near Baxter Springs in the extreme southeastern corner of Cherokee County, Kansas, was an active underground operation within the historic Tri-State Lead and Zinc Mining District. Geologically, the deposit is situated within Mississippi-age carbonate rocks of the Ozark Plateau, where lead and zinc sulfide ores were concentrated in brecciated chert beds and limestone formations. Mineralogically, the mine yielded typical Tri-State assemblages dominated by sphalerite and galena, accompanied by gangue minerals such as dolomite, calcite, and chert. Historically, heavy mining activity in this Kansas sector accelerated during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the Ballard Mine operating as a notable deep-extraction site before regional metal production permanently wound down and ceased across the district around 1970.
Product details
SpeciesSphalerite, Marcasite, Chalcopyrite
SizeCabinet
Dimensions12.5 x 5.0 x 4.0 cm
Listed on10/07/2026
LocalityUSA, Kansas, Ballard Mine
SKU2212362
Current owner
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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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