* Mineral Species: Druzy Quartz on Chrysocolla & Malachite with micro-Wulfenite
$ 145.2
Description
* Mineral Species: Druzy Quartz on Chrysocolla & Malachite with micro-Wulfenite. • Host Matrix: Galena / Sphalerite Ore Complex. This piece is a classic example of a supergene oxidation zone mineral suite. • Handling: Contains raw lead ore (galena/wulfenite). Always wash your hands after handling the bare rock. • Mineral Species: Druzy Quartz on Chrysocolla & Malachite with micro-Wulfenite • Host Matrix: Galena / Sphalerite Ore Complex • Locality: 79 Mine (Fourth Level), Banner District, Dripping Springs Mts, Gila County, Arizona, USA • Specimen Class: Cabinet Combination Specimen • Special Properties: Distinctive dual-response longwave UV fluorescence (fiery neon orange) with a 2-second phosphorescent afterglow driven by a hidden manganese-activated carbonate layer. Geological Summary for Your Records This piece is a classic example of a supergene oxidation zone mineral suite. It started deep underground as a heavy, gray metallic lead-zinc sulfide ore body (galena and sphalerite). Over millennia, oxygen-rich surface waters seeped down through the earth, dissolving the metals. Inside the open rock cavities (vugs), these dissolved metals recrystallized into a beautiful timeline: first forming the underlying manganese-rich carbonates, followed by vibrant blue copper silicates (chrysocolla) and green carbonates (malachite), topped with a sparkling crust of clear quartz, while the remaining lead crystallized into the sharp, yellow wulfenite squares hiding in the cracks. Important Collection Notes • Handling: Contains raw lead ore (galena/wulfenite). Always wash your hands after handling the bare rock. • Stability: Keep dry. Do not expose to acids or harsh chemical cleaners, as they will dissolve the fluorescent carbonate layer. • Est. Market Value: $750 – $1000+ (Value is highly supported by the presence of the verified wulfenite crystals, the distinct Arizona mine provenance, and the strong 2-second UV afterglow). ◦
