Sphalerite - classic USA
stock #19.1-375
Joplin Field, Tri State District, Jasper County
Missouri,
United States
11.3 x 9 x 4.8 CM (cabinet)
price: $1600
Large, esthetic and in perfect condition, this is an exemplary old Tri-state Sphalerite, mined before 1940. The Joplin field was at one time a seemingly endless source of mineral specimens, though really fine, undamaged pieces were very rare. The last of these mines have all been closed for more than 50 years, and the best specimens came out long before then. This is a superb Sphalerite with large distinct crystals that stand out from the matrix. Crystal faces show complex striations, etchings and some twinning, these have a choice silky luster that shows these structures well. This is incredible in person and very much a superb piece from this now legendary area.
A fine piece from an American classic locality, the Tristate Joplin area. This was once a great producer of good minerals, it is now long gone and high quality pieces have become very scarce. This esthetic and unusually colorful piece has a 6 CM twinned butterscotch Calcite contrasting with ruby-red Sphalerites. In great condition, 1940s vintage specimen this is piece would have been far better than average back when these were plentiful. Today this quality is almost never seen.
Sphalerite
stock #AC-017
Joplin Field, Tri State District, Jasper County
Missouri,
United States
8.6 x 5.4 x 3.6 CM (cabinet)
price: $325
A brilliant and pristine red Sphalerite from the classic Tri State district. Even though this was once easilly available it was not usually as attractive as this piece. The mines have been closed for decades now and is now quite uncommon to find any good USA "ruby jack". A sizable vug of 7.5 Cm across is packed with lusterous sparkling Ruby color crystals that reach 1.1 CM however most are smaller. No damage, great esthetics and all crystals are translucent. There are some saddle shape Dolomites and a sprinkling of Chalcopyrite as well for a nice contrast. The back of the matrix block has a nice display of Sphalerite as well (6 CM across), and would be an excellent piece on its own. Very classy color and great eye appeal as well as being an affordable classic US piece!
