Siderite Epimorph Baryte Ladies Slipper

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Probably one of the most recognisable epimorphs from the Cornubian Orefield are the Siderite epimorphs, named “Lady's Slippers”, from Virtuous Lady mine at Buckland Monachorum in Devon. This mine dates back to at least the Elizabethan period of the late 16th century. Many of these unusual epimorphs are reputed to have been mostly found in the underground workings below the river Tavy and are thought to be casts after Baryte or, more likely, Celestine. Baryte is usually stated as the original mineral, but this theory is losing favour. This specimen is a magnificent 15 cm tall of a rich brown associated with crystals of light metallic golden Pyrite embedded in the Siderite. The specimen comes with its own purpose made acrylic stand. An outstanding example from this iconic discovery!