Cleator Moor Iron Mines, Cleator Moor, West Cumberland Iron Field, Cumbria, England

6.4 x 5.2 x 4.1 cm

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Ex. H. R. McBroom, from Sam Weller, 1985

At first glance, the Sphalerite crystals on this specimen appear to be black in color with a high luster. Which explains why MR. McBroom wrote Marmatite on the label; a name used for black colored, iron rich Sphalerite. However, when examining the specimen with a 10x loupe, it becomes apparent the crystals are a dark red in color being more noticeable in the smaller crystals with a few even being a bit gemmy. Overlaying much of the specimen is a druze of micro Calcite crystals which range from clear to off white in color. The clear crystals are doulbe terminated. Where these clear crystals are, the underlying dark color of the Sphalerite gives a light gray color. On one side of the specimen, there are numerous instances of the Calcite having formed casts after crystals of a since dissolved, unidentified mineral. These are referred to on the Sam Weller label as Calcitic-Epimorphs. There are also a few, small disc shaped, twined crystals present in places. The specimen is in good condition