Chalcocite

Unknown Owner

Brilliant purple and the desirable blue iridescence on this chalcocite with good crystal structure. Some breaks along the periphery visible, but the main crystals and display face are in good condition. Great detailed provenance on this particular piece. The colors are being caused by a coating of bornite. This specimen comes from the now closed Flambeau Mine in Wisconsin and is the most important find of this species in North America. The property was operated by Kennecott up through 1997 and has now been completely reclaimed and revegetated. No specimens will likely ever come from this mine again. Collected by Casey Jones