Baryte & Sphalerite - Elmwood Mine USA

Size: 13,5 x 7 x 5 cm

Location: Elmwood Mine - Smith Co. - Tennessee - USA

incl. custom base

This extraordinary specimen from the Elmwood Mine combines two perfectly harmonizing minerals: a sparkling “carpet” of dark, crystalline sphalerite and a spherically grown formation of cream-coloured barite, which is enthroned on it almost like a floating sculpture. This combination is visually absolutely fascinating.

Structure and shine

The matrix consists of countless, finely formed sphalerite crystals, which together create a sparkling surface. Depending on the light source, dark red and copper-colored reflections flash up - a typical characteristic of high-quality Elmwood sphalerite. The shine is lively, almost metallic, without being obtrusive. The crystals form a dense, even foundation that lends depth and complexity to the entire piece.

Barite - a spherical appearance

The real star rests on this stage: a round barite formation that immediately catches the eye. Unlike the typical tabular or leafy barites from this region, this specimen is almost spherical in shape - an absolute eye-catcher. Its surface is textured and in a warm cream shade that contrasts beautifully with the dark sphalerite. This soft color gives the piece an organic appearance, like a naturally grown art object.

Color and shape contrasts in perfect balance

The interplay between the glittering darkness of the sphalerite and the soft, light presence of the baryte creates an exciting, almost dramatic aesthetic. While the sphalerite has a complex structure and fine light reflections, the barite radiates simplicity. Together, the result is an interplay that appears almost surreal in its naturalness - like a still life from nature that is completely uninterrupted in its effect.

Professional presentation

For a stylish and secure presentation, we made a custom base in-house from high-quality acrylic glass. The shape adapts exactly to the piece, raises it slightly and allows an all-round view without impairing the naturalness of the composition. The location where the piece was found is discreetly engraved on the front of the base - an elegant reference to the origin and history of the piece.

Elmwood Mine - aesthetics with tradition

The Elmwood Mine in Tennessee is known for its spectacular combinations of fluorite, sphalerite, calcite and barite. Pieces with spherical or rosette-shaped barite are particularly popular and highly sought after by collectors. The contrast between dark and light minerals is a trademark of this deposit - and is embodied in a particularly harmonious way in this specimen.

An object for collectors with a flair for design

This piece is not only appealing in mineralogical terms, but also visually - it is an art object of nature. Its expressive shape, contrasting colors and museum-quality base make it ideal for collectors who value not only rarity, but also aesthetics and presence in the display case. A piece that immediately catches the eye - and remains in the memory.

VAT is shown unless the item is subject to differential taxation in accordance with § 25a UStG and therefore VAT is not shown on the invoice.