Galena, Fluorite, Dawsonite, Sphalerite

The Francon Quarry is not particularly known for sulfides such as galena, making this specimen a rare and remarkable find. It features a highly lustrous galena crystal prominently situated within a vug lined with purple fluorite and accompanied by dawsonite, quartz, as well as very minor amounts of sphalerite, and calcite. Under magnification, the specimen is particularly appealing.

Located in central Montreal, the Francon Quarry is renowned for its unique alkalic intrusive sill in limestone. Since ceasing operations in 1981, the site has remained permanently closed, making specimens from this locality exceptionally rare and highly sought after by mineral enthusiasts.

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This specimen comes from the collection of Dr. 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. Additionally, Peter has volunteered at the Redpath Museum for the past 21 years, where he was formally appointed the Honorary Curator of Mineralogy. In recognition of his significant contributions to mineralogy, Peter was awarded the 2017 Pinch Medal