Wurtzite (var. Schalenblende), Sphalerite, Galena

Name: Wurtzite (var. Schalenblende), Sphalerite, Galena
SKU: 32893-PT
Price: 75.00 CAD
Availability: InStock

32893-PT Category: Europe - Various Species and Localities Tag: Rare

Schmalgraf Mine, Kelmis, Liege, Wallonia

Belgium

Dimensions: 5.6x5.2x3.7 cm

Price: CA

$75.00

This rare, classic schalenblende specimen has been cut and polished on one side, left rough on the other. It showcases the characteristic bands of wurtzite, sphalerite, and bits of galena. The wurtzite appears as pale brown, sphalerite as dark brown, and the metallic grey are galena. Schalenblende is a colloform zinc ore variety, known for containing both sphalerite and wurtzite, and is especially renowned from the Moresnet area in Belgium. Dr. Tarassoff acquired this fine example from World Wide Minerals in Philipsburg, Quebec, in 1970.

--

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.

1 2 Next »