NATIVE COPPER

SPECIMEN DESCRIPTION

This richly crystallized small cabinet specimen of Native Copper is from Central mine in Keweenaw Co., Michigan, one of the all-time classic locations for Native Copper crystals. Opened in 1854, Central mine holds the distinction of being the first mine in the district to turn a profit in its first year. It continued operating until 1898, producing a total of 51 million lbs (23,000 tons) of refined copper metal. This specimen has a rich bright metallic copper colour and despite having a slightly pitted surface texture the upper part of the specimen is composed of an aggregate of several quite large (to 1.5 cm across) Native Copper crystals displaying nice crystal faces. Minor white Quartz and microscopic inclusions of green Epidote are also present. A fine and very displayable crystallized Native Copper. Ex David Hardman collection.