Hematite "Kidney Ore"

This specimen is a classic example of reniform or mammillary hematite, commonly referred to as "kidney ore," for which the mines in Cumbria are famous. It showcases a fine luster and a rich burgundy-rust color typical of the best hematite specimens from the area. Once abundant on the market, specimens of this quality and condition have become increasingly rare, making this a valuable addition to any collection.

The piece was most likely mined in the 1970s from the famous Florence Mine, which is now extinct. The contacted sides of the specimen reveal the characteristic radial banding of acicular hematite crystals, a hallmark of high-quality hematite. Dr. Peter Tarassoff acquired this specimen in 1977 from Richard W. Barstow in St. Day, Cornwall, England. Barstow was a well-known dealer in minerals from classic European localities, further enhancing the specimen's provenance.

About Mr. Barstow: Richard "Dick" Barstow, born on January 7, 1947, in Bangor, North Wales, was a highly respected mineralogist and one of Britain's most enterprising modern field collectors during the mining revival of the 1960s. Based in Tregeseal, near Botallack, Cornwall, he began his mineral business in December 1972, trading by mail order. Despite not having formal scientific education, Dick's extensive knowledge and energetic approach to researching and visiting classic and recent localities led to remarkable success in recovering high-quality specimens, often marked with his signature green card labels (one included with this specimen). He passed away at the young age of 35 from liver cancer, but his legacy endures, with the Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery acquiring a portion of his fine private collection of Cornish and Devonshire minerals in 1986.

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