PL50 Rhodochrosite, Bournonite, Sphalerite

Huachocolpa Mine, Huancavelica Prov., Huancavelica Dept., Peru

3.6x 3.2x 3.1 cm

$85

The Huachocolpa mining area is situated approximately 5,000 meters above sea level.  Several species are found there, however the most notable are the rhodochrosites, which form almost curly crystal aggregates, with globular black clusters of sphalerite sprinkled among them.

The rhodochrosite from here has been found to usually consist of 2 generations, the latter being rich in calcium, which contributes to its pale color.