Detailed information
Species
Fluorite, Calcite
Dimensions
140 x 142 x 80
mm
Weight
1309 g
Locality
Denton Mine Illinois - Kentucky Fluorspar District Hardin Co., Illinois, USA
Condition
No recorded repairs
This is a fine 'statement' Denton mine Fluorite featuring the most desirable blue for which this mine is renowned. This large display specimen has an enormous amount going for it. Firstly, the crystals are very big, reaching 7.3 cm on edge, and are clustered in a very presentable arrangement. I have already alluded to the superb colour, but when backlit this becomes an electric blue with a stunning internal glow brought about by its pale amber-yellow core. The Fluorite crystals are well-formed, with sharp edges, but with rough naturally etched surfaces. The Fluorite is certainly not gemmy, but has a fine, even, translucency. The larger crystals display some internal fracturing but the specimen is stable and remarkably these fractures are no more obvious when backlit. In some places the corner edges of the Fluorite reveals subtle hints of purple. Upon the surface, patches of small drusy white scalenohedral Calcite crystals break up the uniform blue colour of the Fluorite. Some might have chosen to remove the Calcite, but if anything it adds to the character of this lovely specimen. Large, colourful and dramatic, and from a true American classic locality.