MARCASITE

SPECIMEN DESCRIPTION

Linwood mine in Scott County, Iowa is an interesting mine, not for metals, but as an extension of quarrying - forced underground due to the depth of burial of high purity limestone horizons. Started as a quarry in the late 19th century, underground room and pillar mining started during the 1950s and continues to this day. During this time, occasional finds of well-crystallized Marcasite have been made, but the most recent discoveries have proved to be exceptional. Described as a 'one-time' pocket, long stalactites of Marcasite coated with sharp bladed Marcasite crystals were recovered. Most were individual stalactites, but this dramatic large cabinet specimen reveals how these stalactites formed - interlocking like a web. The stalactites reach over 12 cm in length, some with pronounced bends along the way, and all covered in 2 to 3 mm long Marcasite crystals. A few small white Baryte crystals are sat upon the Marcasite. The Marcasite is a pale golden grey colour and metallic, but with a slight tarnish. Minor rusty patches are present on the back of the specimen, but this is a very significant specimen from the recent finds. Ex Nick Hawes collection.