Detailed information
Species
Witherite
Dimensions
85 x 68 x 40
mm
Locality
2nd Sun Vein, Nentsberry Haggs Mine Alston Moor, Cumbria England
Condition
No recorded repairs
A classic specimen of Witherite from the 2nd Sun Vein in Nentsberry Haggs mine, Cumbria. Large pseudohexagonal crystals (to about 3 cm across) form a stepped dome, much like a miniature Giant's Causeway with its Basalt columns. The parallel growths of hexagonal Witherite crystals display naturally etched incised hopper-like terminations, showing a thin replacement coating of Baryte. The definition of the crystals is excellent compared with many specimens where the natural etching has gone too far. The underside of the specimen has associated dark brown Sphalerite. A very characteristic specimen from replacement Flats associated with the 2nd Sun Vein.