Sphalerite on Calcite

Titan Mining Empire State Mine #4,

Newfold Ore Body, 3,981 level, Balmat,

St Lawrence Co., New York, USA

11 cm tall x 9.5 cm wide

New York State is not commonly thought of as a locality for exceptional mineral specimens. Which makes this recent discovery of sphalerite from upstate New York all the more remarkable.

This mine has been in operation since the early 19 th century. Over the past 150+ years it produced very few collector quality minerals.

In 2022-23 pockets of superb gem quality sphalerite crystals were discovered which rank among the finest worldwide.

The specimen is a large calcite modified rhombohedron as the matrix for near flawless vivid golden- yellow sphalerite crystals with sharp, well-defined edges. The contrast between the calcite crystals and the vibrant yellow crystals creates a striking, geometric composition that highlights the natural beauty and intricate details of the mineral structure. The overall piece exudes a sense of raw elegance and complexity inherent in natural mineral formations. This example ranks at the very pinnacle of all that was discovered.