Sphalerite on Quartz

LOCATION:

Casapalca Mine, Huarochiri Province, Departamento de Lima, Peru

DESCRIPTION:

Many sharp, lustrous, dark-grey, striated crystals of Sphalerite, the largest measuring 32 mm acress and 16 mm thick. They are nicely accented by whitish Quartz crystals with a satiny luster, including one large crystal measuring 69 mm long. This large Quartz is partly overgrown with small milky Quartz crystals. Three of the small Quartz crystals are broken, but do not detract. The large Quartz crystal and the Sphalerite are undamaged, and are incomplete at the base where removed from the pocket. It is difficult to photograph and looks much nicer in person. Purchased in 1983 from Willard Perkins, this fine old specimen has been in my collection since then.

SIZE: 83 x 60 x 39 mm overall (Small Cabinet)
         with up to 32 x 16 mm Sphalerite

COLLECTION: ex. Bob Griffis collection
ex. Willard Perkins specimen