Hematite with Quartz

Spanning an entire a clam shell-like matrix of massive Hematite, an approximately 10 x 5 cm vug is completely lined with excellent crystals of lustrous metallic black Specularite, the crystallised, platy variety of Hematite. Overgrowing the Specularite are bright, gemmy to translucent well-formed pyramidal crystals of Quartz measuring to 1.2 cm, many being double terminated. The Quartz forms ribbon like clusters which contrast beautifully against the jet black Hematite. This magnificent cabinet specimen is from Florence mine which closed in 2007 due to pumping costs. The mine buildings and headframe remain to this day, just east of the mining town of Egremont in Cumbria, England.