This specimen features a velvety aggregate of azurite crystals partially replaced by malachite, a classic example from the now long-closed mine known for its malachite pseudomorphs after azurite. The mine, originally opened in 1862 by the Northern Minerals Association, was operated by the Daly-Stanley Mining Company from 1866 to 1868. Later, it was managed by the Tasmanian Copper Company and then by tributors. Further exploration occurred around 1910, and in 1914, the Flinders Copper Mining Company took over, renaming it the No. 8 Workings. A small amount of ore was produced in 1918, but by 1920, operations ceased, and the field was abandoned. Once plentiful, specimens of this quality are now difficult to obtain. Purchased by Dr. Tarassoff decades ago.
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This specimen comes from the collection of Peter Tarassoff, a prominent figure in mineralogy, particularly known for his work at Mont Saint-Hilaire (MSH). His diligent collecting and examination efforts have led him to be the first to identify at least 35 species and discover 12 new species, not only at MSH but also at other alkaline localities. Dubbed the "Dean" of Mont Saint-Hilaire collectors, Peter was honoured with the naming of the new species petarasite in 1980. He has authored or co-authored numerous mineralogical articles and has been a member of the Mineralogical Association of Canada since 1964 and the Mineralogical Society of America for over 30 years. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years. In recognition of his significant contributions to mineralogy, Dr. Peter Tarassoff was awarded the 2017 Pinch Medal by the Mineralogical Association of Canada.
Peter's dedication to systematic collecting, curating his collection, and maintaining an archive of detailed historical and scientific information has greatly benefited the mineral sciences community both in Canada and globally. All specimens from this collection come with the original P. Tarassoff collection label.
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