Hematite "Kidney Ore"

Name: Hematite "Kidney Ore"
SKU: 32888-PT
Price: 280.00 CAD
Availability: InStock

32888-PT Category: Europe - Various Species and Localities Tag: Featured

Beckermet Mine, Cumbria, England

UK

Dimensions: 5.0x7.0x5.0 cm

Price: CA

$280.00

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 lustre and a rich burgundy-rust colour 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 Beckermet 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 on a trip to London England from mineral dealer, Gregory, Bottley and Co.

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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 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, Peter 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.

Note: All prices are in Canadian dollars (CAD). International customers are charged in CAD, exchange rate is calculated automatically by your bank/paypal upon checkout.

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