Cacoxenite, Goethite

This specimen showcases lustrous radiating acicular golden-yellow cacoxenite crystals, a relatively rare iron phosphate, embedded in a novaculite matrix of goethite-limonite.  The specimen originates from a former manganese occurrence and mine, located 6 miles northwest of Albert Pike. This site, initially worked until 1959, was later reopened in 1972 and 1986 specifically for specimen collection. The ore body is characterized by mineralization within fractured Arkansas Novaculite, with the workings consisting of open cuts and shallow pits.