Galena on Fluorite. Sub-Rosiclare Level, Denton Mine, Hardin Co., Illinois, USA. ...

Description

Galena on Fluorite
Sub-Rosiclare Level, Denton Mine, Hardin Co., Illinois, USA

Formerly in the most important collection of Illinois minerals, the Ross Lillie Collection #0909, this is an outstanding combination piece from the Denton Mine, circa 1987 according to Lillie's catalog. The specimen is an artistic combination of large, splendent Galena crystals perched on a matrix of etched purple Fluorite. The duo of Galena crystals at one corner of the piece measures 4 and 6 cm across, respectively. There is also a doublet Galena crystal at the base just over 5 cm across, taken together. All of the Galena crystals on this aesthetic specimen are bright gray metallic and dominated by the cube form with octahedral modifications - so they are simple in geometry but with complexity at the corners that draw the eye. The matrix of etched, purple Fluorite makes for an attractive textural and color contrast for this outstanding combination piece from the Southern Illinois Fluorspar District. It displays dramatically, is without damage, and is a wonderful Galena from a famous collection and a time and place now long gone as these mines closed in 1995.
Measurements: 4.88 x 4.13 x 1.81 inches (12.40 x 10.50 x 4.60 cm)

Provenance: The Collection of a Southern Gentleman, Ex. Ross Lillie Collection

Estimated Gallery Pricing: $10,000

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