Detailed information
Species
Chlorargyrite, var. Bromian Chlorargyrite
Dimensions
66 x 62 x 28
mm
Locality
Block 14, Broken Hill Proprietary Mine Yancowinna Co., New South Wales Australia
Condition
No recorded repairs
The name Embolite is frequently given to the bromine-rich variety of Chlorargyrite, AgCl, a silver chloride. The addition of bromine modifies the composition to Ag(Cl,Br) and gives the framboidal crystalline structure a pale yellowish-green hue and waxy lustre. This specimen, from Block 14 of the Broken Hill Proprietary mine in New South Wales, Australia, is composed entirely of 'Embolite', which forms an open, porous, sponge-like rigid mass. Such halide minerals are light sensitive and on prolonged exposure to light, become blackened and opaque. The upper surface of this specimen is such an example and appears as a mass of sooty-dark grey stalagmitic framboids. The underside, however, has been largely protected from light and has, therefore, remained mainly pale yellow-green. This specimen is best kept in a light-proof box or drawer to maintain its natural colour and composition. It's a superb example of this classic mineral from Broken Hill.