Detailed information
Species
Marcasite
Dimensions
168 x 132 x 68
mm
Weight
507 g
Locality
Linwood Mine Buffalo, Scott County Iowa, USA
Condition
No recorded repairs
Linwood mine in Scott County, Iowa is an interesting mine, not for metals, but as an extension of quarrying - forced underground due to the depth of burial of high purity limestone horizons. Started as a quarry in the late 19th century, underground room and pillar mining started during the 1950s and continues to this day. During this time, occasional finds of well-crystallized Marcasite have been made, but the most recent discoveries have proved to be exceptional. Described as a 'one-time' pocket, long stalactites of Marcasite coated with sharp bladed Marcasite crystals were recovered. Most were individual stalactites, but this dramatic large cabinet specimen reveals how these stalactites formed - interlocking like a web. The stalactites reach over 12 cm in length, some with pronounced bends along the way, and all covered in 2 to 3 mm long Marcasite crystals. A few small white Baryte crystals are sat upon the Marcasite. The Marcasite is a pale golden grey colour and metallic, but with a slight tarnish. Minor rusty patches are present on the back of the specimen, but this is a very significant specimen from the recent finds. Ex Nick Hawes collection.