Classic baryte "balls" to 5.8 cm with clusters of lustrous, ruby-jack sphalerite are dramatically set on the two-sided, wedge of sparkly, drusy quartz-covered limestone matrix on this very impressive cabinet specimen from the less common and now-closed Cumberland Mine of Tennessee. The Cumberland is very near to the Elmwood Mine and was not known as a great specimen producer. Baryte and quartz are rare from the Cumberland, so this is an exceptional combination specimen from this locale. Ex. Walt Gaylord Collection: mine geologist for the Elmwood and Cumberland Mines. His note indicates that the piece was collected in 1994 from O6S #4 within the mine.
Known provenanceKnowing where your specimen comes from and who owned it adds to its story and value. Good provenance helps prove it's authentic and preserves important details about its discovery.