Up for auction is this exquisite specimen of Sphalerite and Chalcopyrite on Dolomite from near Baxter Springs, Cherokee County, Kansas. This specimen measures 2 3/4 x 2 x 7/8 inches and is in nearly perfect condition. You might notice a very slight color difference on the large sphalerite...this is due to very minor abrasion...and I mean VERY MINOR!  Many people touch this up with dark permanent marker, but I wont do that and will leave it up to the new owner.

  This specimen is a complete floater as is evidenced by the chalcopyrite and dolomite crystals on the sides of the breccia chip. These breccia chips typically flake or break off the sides of the host dolomite and are later mineralized by invading mineral solutions. They were typically found in collapsed pockets within the Tri-State district and oftentimes could be gently pulled out using ones fingers!!  Imagine collecting conditions like that!

  The sphalerite crystal is about a half-inch long and shows good relief against the specimen. There is a very, very light secondary quartz dusting on parts of the specimen that add some additional sparkle. The chalcopyrite crystals, for me, are the real star on this specimen.  They are exceedingly sharp and many are iridescent and show a wonderful play of colors under the loupe....where this piece comes alive.

  I picked this up at a Tucson area rock shop and it came in a box with the "Baxter Springs, KS" notation on the side.  There were so many mines in the Tri-State district (where KS, MO and OK meet) and the vast majority of specimens come with poor and inadequate locality information. One reason for this is that it was possible to enter a mine in Kansas, work ones way to Oklahoma,  meander around to Missouri and come back out again in Kansas!  Many collectors simply didnt have a good idea as to the precise location.

  This is a very choice and aesthetic specimen in superb condition.  I usually only add a sub-title to more expensive items or Buy-it-Now pieces, but I wanted to give this beauty a little more attention---attention that is justly deserved.

  Please check my feedback and my other auction items...thanks! All specimens are carefully wrapped, come with complete and accurate labels and are quickly shipped.  As always, your complete satisfaction is unconditionally guaranteed.  Thanks for looking!