Pyrolusite

This thumbnail specimen makes for a great example of the classic pyrolusite specimens from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It features brilliant, iridescent metallic-black prismatic crystals in a bed of quartz going through the host rock matrix. Under the 'scope one can see tiny specs of what appears to be mud, I think that someone with patience and a stable hand may be able to clean this off and really make the specimen sparkle!

Sourced from a small open-pit iron mine near Alberta, Michigan, this area is well-known for its isolated iron formation within the Michigamme Lower Slate. Notable specimens of pyrolusite and manganite have been recovered here, especially from the smaller prospect pits to the west and north of the main pit, which tend to yield some of the finest crystals. A true Michigan classic, this specimen is a testament to the rich mineralogy of the region’s historic iron mines.