Hematite var. Pencil Ore

Hodbarrow mine was the most southerly in a group iron mines in West Cumbria, yet far south of the area collectors are more familiar with in the Egremont-Frizington mining district.  Hodbarrow became famous for its fine Pencil Ore, a fibrous variety of Hematite.  The term fibrous is used in this context to describe densely bunched acicular clusters of Hematite, fibrous in texture and morphology, but not flexible.  This is an exceptionally good specimen form Hodbarrow, measuring 13.8 cm long and of a dull steel-grey with tinges of brick-red and a satin lustre.  As with all good Pencil Ore specimens, the fibres emanate from a narrow base coated with a little Calcite, then gradually splay to end in feathered narrow spikes.  A great example from a seldom seen location.