NATIVE COPPER

SPECIMEN DESCRIPTION

Quincy mine was one of the longest-lived copper mines in Houghton Co., Michigan, operating from 1848 to 1931; 1937 to 1945; and 1947 to 1968, producing in total over 400,000 tons of copper metal. During that time it also produced some of most perfect crystals of Native Copper, particularly dodecahedral crystal forms. This very large miniature to smaller cabinet specimen is almost entirely coarsely crystallized Native Copper, with just a few flecks of white Calcite. The Native Copper crystals are large, exceptionally reaching 2.5 cm across, and display some excellent faces, some with fine natural growth lines. There are two sawn areas, not to be confused with growth lines, but otherwise this is a lovely crystallized Quincy mine Native Copper, displaying that wonderful old-time surface patina, with flashes of brighter orange metal shining through. Ex David Hardman collection, no. 619.