Sphalerite
Sphalerite is the major ore of zinc. When pure (with little or no iron) it forms clear to white crystals. Yellow to orange sphalerite is often called “golden sphalerite.” Red shades of sphalerite are known as Ruby Blende or Ruby Jack. As iron content increases, sphalerite forms dark, opaque submetallic crystals. This particular specimen has submetallic to golden sphalerite. The colour is quite stunning under light, giving it a very gemmy amber appearance. The specimen stands on its own very nicely.
Locality
Shuikoushan Mine. Shuikoushan Ore Field, Changning Co., Hengyang, Hunan, China
Dimensions
14cm x 5cm x 9cm