Fluorite

Fluorite specimens from the long-closed Madawaska Mine, a former underground uranium mine, are exceptionally rare. This miniature features gemmy emerald-green fluorite crystals running through a vug in white calcite. Several well-formed octahedral fluorite crystals can be seen at the centre providing a focal point for the specimen. Under UV light, the fluorite fluoresces bright blue.

The Madawaska Mine, which began operations after its discovery in late 1953, reached a depth of 473 meters (1,537 feet) through extensive shaft deepening. It remained active until its closure in 1982, becoming renowned not only for uranium but also for unique calcite-hematite mineralizations. This piece is a small but fine representation of the locality's mineralogical legacy.