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BULGARIA
Roman Coliseum c. 100 B.C. Excavated Architecture from Roman Period- Plovdiv, 2009
Roman Coliseum Excavated stadium underneath downtown pedestrian mall- Plovdiv 2009 MINING NEWS August 2009 Active mining continues on reduced scale in the district. In Madan, the Kruchev dol, Boreiva and Petrovitsa Mines are operating. Laki has two operating mines with the Drujba and Djurkovo properties. In Zlatograd the Androvo and Gjudurska Mines are active. The best and truly fantastic galena specimens that were coming out of one block of ground in the Kruchev dol Mine are gone. This block of ground is mined out and the stope finished. The Petrovitsa and Gjudurska Mines are now producing most of the best material. The galenas are exceptionally high quality and reflect some of the best ever seen from these mines. It is an excellent time for Madan\Zlatograd specimens. Laki is very quiet with little or no material being produced. New Minerals On-Line December 11th
ON APPROVAL NSMW9352 RHODOCHROSITE WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $65.
NSMW9348 ALMANDINE IN SCHIST PRICE: $45.
NSMW9347 SPHALERITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $45.
NSMW9346 CALCITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $45.
NSMW9345 AMETHYST PRICE: $65.
NSMW9344 CALCITE AND DOLOMITE PRICE: $45.
New Minerals On-Line December 3rd
NSMW9267 GALENA WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $850.
NSMW9266 GALENA AND SPHALERITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $1250.
NSMW9265 GALENA AND SPHALERITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $280.
NSMW9264 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $250.
NSMW9263 GALENA PRICE: $225.
NSMW9262 GALENA AND QUARTZ WITH CALCITE PRICE: $225.
NSMW9261 GALENA AND CHALCOPYRITE PRICE: $250.
NSMW9186 PYRITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $125.
NSMW9183 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $180.
NSMW9182 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $125.
NSMW9181 CHALCOPYRITE AND GALENA ON QUARTZ PRICE: $250.
NSMW9178 GALENA WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $850.
NSMW9177 GALENA WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $250.
NSMW9059 GALENA WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $125.
NSMW9058 GALENA AND PYRITE PRICE: $450.
NSMW9057 GALENA ON QUARTZ PRICE: $350.
NSMW9056 GALENA ON SPHNALERITE PRICE: $125.
NSMW9055 GALENA ON QUARTZ PRICE: $250.
NSMW9054 GALENA ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $380.
NSMW9053 GALENA AND CALCITE PRICE: $250.
NSMW9028 GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $380.
NSMW9025 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $480.
NSMW9021 CALCITE PRICE: $125.
NSMW9019 GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH CALCITE PRICE: $350.
NSMW9015 QUARTZ- Japan Law Twin PRICE: $350. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Perfect Japan Law Twin, 3.5 cm across, standing up vertically from the center of a group of prismatic crystals. These are exceedingly rare to acquire and find in this condition and with such good display character. One of the prismatic crystals towards the back side and opposite the display side of the specimen is broken flush with matrix. Mined 2007. 3 x 5 x 7 cm.
NSMW9014 GALENA ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $250. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Group of bright, silvery/metallic galena on black sphalerite. The galena is solely cubic which is highly unusual from this location. Fine sharp cubes such as these are difficult to acquire as so many of the galena is highly complex and modified or twinned. Displays great and in top condition. Note: there are many small dimples on the surfaces that indicate fluid inclusions- it is a hallmark of the very high quality crystals to have these concave indentations. Mined in 2008. 4 x 5 x 6 cm.
NSMW8899 QUARTZ WITH HEMATITE PRICE: $450. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Transparent, glassy quartz crystals with a light druse of reddish/brown hematite. The crystals are up to 8 cm which are the largest I have seen or acquired from this pocket. In great condition and an excellent medium cabinet specimen from one unique pocket found in 2008. 9 x 12 x 12 cm.
NSMW8896 SPHALERITE AND CHALCOPYRITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $650. OSIKOVO MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Bright combination of high luster sphalerite, iridescent golden chalcopyrite, galena and quartz. This is the first one of these that I have seen from the Osikovo Mine. Normally, these chalcopyrites are from the Konski dol Mine and the greenish matrix is distinctive from there as well, but , this piece was mined in 1980 and obviously from a different section of the ore body. In great condition and a very attractive and aesthetic medium cabinet specimen 6 x 9 x 13 cm.
NSMW8895 GALENA PRICE: $2500. GJUDURSKA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Large group of spinel law twinned galena with super sharp secondary modifications on the twin planes. The forms are highly complex and hoppered and the overall metallic sheen is excellent. There is a depression off to the left center of specimen that is crystallized all around the interior. This may reflect pocket movement and then re-healing. Mined in 2008 and in great condition. A very dramatic specimen. Sawn base to remove excess matrix. 7 x 13 x 19 cm.
ON APPROVAL NSMW8867 GALENA ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $3500. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA The Mogila Mine is one of two mines that access the most famous and fantastic ore body in Madan, namely, the Deveti Septemvri Complex (9th of September Complex). The Mogila and Osikovo Mines have produced thousands of great specimens over the years but perhaps one of the most sensational galena forms found are these skeletal crystals. The pocket was found c. early 1980s and was unique. One miner had the stash for some 25 years until a local Bulgarian dealer bought the lot. They first started showing up at Munich about 4 years ago and created quite a lot of interest because collectors thought they were from new mining. The best of them sold quickly to private collectors. This piece was in a German collection until last year when I acquired it. It is by far one of the most aesthetic and displayable specimens I have seen from the find. Top miniature in top condition. 2 x 3.5 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW8862 SPHALERITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Combination of lustrous black sphalerite and translucent quartz. Well crystallized to all sides and in great condition. Mined 2008. 6 x 9 x 10 cm.
NSMW8848 COPPER PRICE: $SOLD SPUHIEVO MINE, near HASKOVO CITY, BULGARIA Group of native copper crystals from new mining in 2006. In great condition and a nice specimen of the species from the location. 1.6 x 2 x 2.5 cm.
NSMW8846 PYRITE PRICE: $15. MOGILA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Sharp pyrite crystal, 1.2 x 1.5 cm, on drusy quartz. In great condition. Miniature 1.5 x 2.5 x 3.5 cm.
NSMW8845 GALENA PRICE: $60. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Spinel Law twins of galena on drusy quartz. Excellent sharp faces and very high metallic sheen. Mined 2003. In great condition. 2 x 3 x 4 cm.
NSMW8842 QUARTZ ON GALENA PRICE: $25. BORIEVA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Two overlapping quartz crystals on galena matrix. Aesthetic miniature from mining in 1998. In great condition. 2 x 3 x 5 cm.
NSMW8840 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $75. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA A group of spiky quartz crystals with sharp galenas perched on one end. The galenas, 2 cm, are cube forms modified by the octahedron. Fine small cabinet from mining in 1998. In great condition. 3 x 5 x 8 cm.
NSMW8839 GALENA PRICE: $65. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Spinel Law twinned galena with complex forms on the octahedron and a melted appearance from dissolution and re-growth. In great condition. Mined 2006. Associated sphalerite as matrix. 3 x 4 x 5.
NSMW8809 GALENA WITH CHALCOPYRITE PRICE: $650. SOUTH PETROVITSA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Very high quality cubic and octahedral galena with associated bright chalcopyrite and drusy quartz. The galena crystals are exceptionally sharp and well formed and there is some attractive hoppering on the octahedron faces. Sharp, clean and in great condition. From the fantastic new find in March/April 2009. 3 x 6 x 8 cm.
NSMW8807 MANGANOAN CALCITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Rhombs of light pastel pink calcite stacked up on prismatic quartz. The calcites are typical from this mine and especially in combination with well developed quartz. Mined in 2009. In great condition. 5 x 6.5 x 7 cm.
NSMW8806 GALENA WITH CHALCOPYRITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $200. GJUDURSKA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Galena crystals with a preferential druse of brassy chalcopyrites perched on light greenish quartz matrix. Very attractive small cabinet from new mining in 2009. In great condition. 5 x 5 x 6.2 cm.
NSMW8805 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $125. SOUTH PETROVITSA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Combination of cubic galena with octahedral modifications, black high luster sphalerite, transparent quartz and drusy chalcopyrite. Concave indentations on the cubic faces reflect fluid inclusions. Mined 2009. In great condition. 3 x 5 x 7 cm.
NSMW8804 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $220. SOUTH PETROVITSA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Very sharp, cubic galena with octahedral corners and in combination with black sphalerite and quartz. From the great new finds of April 2009. In great condition. 3 x 5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW8803 GALENA PRICE: $250. SOUTH PETROVITSA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Very bright, silvery metallic galena perched on matrix with associated quartz. The galena is cubic with a mosaic surface and has associated calcite on the top and chalcopyrites on the faces. In great condition. Mined 2009. 5.5 x 5.5 x 6 cm.
NSMW8800 CHALCOPYRITE AND SPHALERITE ON GALENA PRICE: $125. GJURDURSKA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Combination of galena and sphalerite with brassy chalcopyrite. The galena is a cubic crystal with step-like growth on the surface that adds good three dimensionality and the specimen has good overall balance and aesthetics. Crystallized to all sides and in great condition. Mined 2009. 4 x 5.5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW8799 GALENA ON PYRITE PRICE: $2500. GJURDURSKA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Spinel law twinned galena on pyrite and sphalerite. This specimen really resembles the great Kruchev dol twins produced in the last couple of years but stands apart as there is so much pyrite in the matrix and the crystals are just a little smoother appearing. Displays very well with the best and largest twin, 8 cm, standing up vertically from matrix. Minor damage on left side of piece (see left side of lower photo) but overall in great condition and a very dramatic specimen from new mining March 8, 2009. Flat base from trim saw. 7 x 9 x 11.5 cm.
NSMW8797 PYRITE ON GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $260. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Exceptionally bright and sharp pyrite group 3 x 3 x 4 cm, perched on galena and sphalerite with associated quartz. The pyrites are visibly striated and contrast very well with the matrix. Minor damage on the backside of the pyrite group. Mined in 2008. 6 x 8 x 11 cm.
NSMW8796 GALENA WITH SPHALERITE AND PYRITE PRICE: $1250. CENTRAL PETROVITSA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Large cube/octahedral galena crystals, to 7 cm across, in combination with black sphalerite and drusy pyrite which has replaced chalcopyrite. There is also an attractive micro druse of pyrite across the galena surface. From new mining in early 2009. In great condition. 6 x 15 x 19 cm.
NSMW8795 GALENA ON PYRITE PRICE: $2500. GJURDURSKA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Mined from a new find in early 2009 is this group of spinel law twinned galenas grouped on brassy pyrite. The crystals are flat faced and smooth at the tops and more complex and slightly etched and re-grown toward the base where they meet the pyrite matrix. The combination with pyrite is much more distinctive of this mine than the Kruchev dol and sets them apart from each other. In great condition and a medium/large cabinet 10 x 11 x 17 cm.
NSMW8504 GALENA WITH QUARTZ AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $45. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Galena with a cap of quartzes and associated black sphalerite. The galena has a mosaic texture and well defined concave indentations that are the result of fluid inclusions. Excellent miniature from mining in 2008. In top condition. 2.5 x 3.5 x 4 cm.
NSMW8502 GALENA WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $250. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Bright silvery metallic spinel twins of galena in combination with prismatic quartz. Beautiful aesthetics and a very fine miniature from mining in 2008. A couple of broken quartzes on the backside but still a very fine galena. 3.2 x 3.5 x 5 cm.
NSMW8500 GALENA PRICE: $250. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Spinel-law twinned galena with superb secondary modifications on the octahedron. A competitive quality miniature from mining in 2006. Very choice and in top condition. 2.6 x 3 x 4 cm.
NSMW8451 PYRITE PRICE: $25.
NSMW8444 PYRITE PRICE: $35.
NSMW8442 GALENA PRICE: $SOLD KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Well hoppered galena crystals with very high silvery sheen and mosaic textured surfaces. Sharp and high quality miniature from mining in 2006. No faults. 2 x 3.5 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW8307 QUARTZ PRICE: $25. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Nice mounded group of very bright and attractive quartz crystals with complete crystallization all around. I acquired this specimen simply because the crystals were highly transparent and the piece beautiful. Mined 2007. In top condition. 4 x 6 x 6 cm.
NSMW8304 GALENA ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $125.
NSMW8286 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $280. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Combination of Spinel Law twinned galenas and transparent quartz. The galenas have modifications on the octahedron and also there are numerous other crystals with cube and octahedral faces. Sharp and clean medium cabinet specimen from mining in 2006. Sphalerite matrix. 6 x 13 x 15 cm.
NSMW8283 QUARTZ AND RHODOCHROSITE PRICE: $45.
NSMW8259 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $120. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Spinel Law twins of galena in combination with quartz. The galenas exhibit partial dissolution and re-growth with a slightly rounded surface and highly complex faces. Mined 2007. In top condition. Miniature 2 x 3 x 5 cm.
NSMW8258 GALENA AND RHODOCHROSITE PRICE: $45.
NSMW8254 QUARTZ WITH CHLORITE INCLUSIONS PRICE: $45.
NSMW8251 PYRITE PRICE: $65.
NSMW8207 QUARTZ AND GALENA PRICE: $45. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Bright transparent quartz with associated galena. Sharp and clean with no damage. Mined 2006. Very attractive miniature 4 x 5 x 6 cm.
NSMW8206 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Fine combination of bright black sphalerite and silvery metallic spinel twinned galena. Associated quartz. Sharp clean and in perfect shape. Mined 2006. Miniature 2.5 x 4.5 x 5.5 cm.
NSMW8197 SPHALERITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $45. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Shiny black sphalerite with associated transparent quartz. Complete on all sides with no damage and a fine miniature from new mining in 2008. 2.5 x 4 x 4.8 cm.
NSMW8196 GALENA PRICE: $120. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Sharp galena crystals well twinned on the spinel law with very high quality metallic sheen. No faults and a very fine miniature 2.5 x 3.5 x 4.5 cm. Mined 2008.
NSMW8194 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Silvery metallic galena in association with quartz. The galenas are well twinned on the spinel law and have exceptionally fine metallic sheen. No faults and a miniature 2 x 3.5 x 4 cm. Mined 2008.
NSMW8147 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Combination of silvery metallic spinel twinned galena and transparent quartz. Sharp and very attractive small cabinet from the new mining in the district 3 x 5.5 x 6 cm.
NSMW8146 QUARTZ PSEUDOMORPH AFTER CALCITE PRICE: $65. DRUJBA MINE, LAKI DISTRICT, BULGARIA A group of calcite scalenohedrons replaced by quartz and with hollow centers in a typical epimorphic form. No faults and a nice small cabinet 3 x 5.5 x 7 cm.
NSMW8144 SPHALERITE var. 'CLEOPHANE' ON QUARTZ PRICE: $120. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Vuggy and brushy groups of quartz with associated green sphalerite. The quartz has a shell-like and hollowed out shape that is likely from dissolution of an early carbonate. Classic Mogila Mine specimen. No faults. Mined c. 1990s. 4.5 x 5.5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW8143 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $220. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA A bright and silvery metallic spinel galena, 4 cm across, perched on matrix of quartz. The Kruchev dol is producing superb specimens at this time and perhaps the best twins ever from the district. This is a fine small cabinet at 2.5 x 5 x 5 cm.
NSMW8140 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $250. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Bright and silvery metallic spinel galenas, to 5 cm across, perched on matrix of and quartz. The galenas have superb secondary cubic forms and open like two pages in a book. The Kruchev dol is producing superb specimens at this time and perhaps the best twins ever from the district. This is a fine small cabinet at 4 x 5 x 7 cm.
NSMW8067 GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $220. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA A bright and silvery metallic spinel galena, 4 cm across, perched on matrix of sphalerite and quartz and associated with other bright and sharp galena twins. The Kruchev dol is producing superb specimens at this time and perhaps the best twins ever from the district. 4.5 x 5.5 x6.5 cm.
NSMW7966 SPHALERITE PRICE: $125. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA A mounded group of very high luster black sphalerite. Twin planes are sharp and very distinct and the specimen displays from any angle. Mined c. 1990s. Sharp and clean small cabinet 4.5 x 5.5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW7957 SPHALERITE AND QUARTZ WITH GALENA PRICE: $225. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Semi-transparent quartz diverging from a matrix of black sphalerite and in combination with galena. About the lower third of the quartzes are included with so much sphalerite that they appear to sort of blend into the matrix. Mined 2006. Choice small cabinet with excellent galena association 4.5 x 5.5 x 7 cm.
NSMW7930 GALENA ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $225. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Silvery metallic galena with associated sphalerite and golden/metallic chalcopyrite. The galena is purely cubic with fantastic hoppered forms and multiple concave indentations on the faces that indicate fluid inclusions. In top condition. Small cabinet mined 2006. 4.5 x 5.5 x 6.8 cm.
NSMW7886 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $125. BLOCK 22, LEVEL 450/550, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Combination of spinel twinned galena and transparent quartz. The specimen has a nice balance with just enough quartz to set off the primary twin, 2 cm, which is perched up off the matrix very well. Sharp miniature from mining in late 2007. In top condition. 4 x 5 x 6 cm.
NSMW7885 QUARTZ PRICE: $45. BLOCK 22, LEVEL 450/550, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Bright and attractive spray of transparent quartz with associated galena in the matrix. These quartzes are exceptionally fine for the mine. New in late 2007. In top condition. 2.8 x 4.5 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW7884 GALENA WITH QUARTZ AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $250. BLOCK 22, LEVEL 450/550, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Excellent miniature combination of silvery/gray metallic galena, lustrous black sphalerite and sharp prismatic quartz. The galena is sharply cubic with stacked forms in parallel over a penetration twinned crystal. Note: indentations on cubic surfaces from fluid inclusions. Mined 2007 and in top condition. 3.5 x 4 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW7833 PYRITE AND QUARTZ WITH SPHALERITE PRICE: $65. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Very bright and sharp pyrites on quartz matrix with associated sphalerite. This is about as good as they get from the Kruchev dol. Very fine small cabinet from mining 2005. 3 x 5 x 6 cm.
NSMW7799 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $1500. 450/500 LEVEL, BLOCK 22, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA The Kruchev dol Mine is producing some of the finest galenas ever seen from the district. It now appears that the great stopes where these were coming from are playing out. Spinel twins are probably the most common type found in this fantastic mine but superb cube and octahedral forms are found as well in combination with quartz and sphalerite. This is an exceptionally fine large cabinet group of galenas with great form and appearance. It has excellent three dimensional shape and just enough quartz to accentuate the galena. A dandy from mining in late 2007. In top condition. 9 x 11.5 x 16.5 cm.
NSMW7798 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $2500. 450/500 LEVEL, BLOCK 22, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA The Kruchev dol Mine is producing some of the finest galenas ever seen from the district. It now appears that the great stopes where these were coming from are playing out. The newest twins are fantastically formed but not quite as brilliant as those from a few months ago. This specimen is one of the bright pieces that was mined towards the end of 2007. It has the superbly twinned spinel crystals, to 8 cm, with silvery/metallic sheen and fine association with semi-transparent quartz. A great display specimen with excellent balance and presentation. A couple of the quartzes are broken flush with matrix and do not show at all when displayed. Specimens with these visual aesthetics are really rare. 9 x 10 x 10.5 cm.
NSMW7747 SPHALERITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $350. 450/500 LEVEL, BLOCK 22, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA The Kruchev dol Mine is producing some of the finest sulfides ever seen from the district. It now appears that the great stopes where these were coming from are playing out. This specimen is one of the very bright sphalerites that was mined towards the end of 2007. In actuality, great sphalerites are more difficult to obtain than galenas which may reflect the lack of fine crystallized specimens of zinc or perhaps it may be because galenas are more in demand but the former is probably the case. Sharp and clean and without damage. 5 x 9 x 9.5 cm.
NSMW7598 QUARTZ AND GALENA ON PYRITE PRICE: $45. 450/500 LEVEL, BLOCK 22, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA The Kruchev dol Mine is the best location in Madan at this time. Superb galenas in combination with sphalerite, quartz and chalcopyrite are being found in a variety of pockets on two major producing levels, namely, the 450 and 500. Some of the finest specimens in the history of Madan are now available. Choice miniature with a fine cluster of quartz perched on matrix. No damage. Mined 2006. 3 x 3 x 5.5 cm.
NSMW7578 GALENA AND SPHALERITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $150. 450/500 LEVEL, BLOCK 22, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA The Kruchev dol Mine is the best location in Madan at this time. Superb galenas in combination with sphalerite, quartz and chalcopyrite are being found in a variety of pockets on two major producing levels, namely, the 450 and 500. Some of the finest specimens in the history of Madan are now available. This is a bright and shiny metallic group of crystals with highly modified surfaces and apparent dissolution and re-growth features. The dominant forms are cubes and octahedrons with multiple spinel twins. Very fine small cabinet specimen from mining in 2006. 3.5 x 7.5 x 8 cm.
NSMW7561 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $350. 450/500 LEVEL, BLOCK 22, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Bright, silver/metallic galena in combination with transparent quartz. The galena is so bright it resembles liquid mercury. A very fine small cabinet specimen from mining 2007. Choice and in top condition. 4 x 6 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW7521 BARITE PRICE: $45. LEVEL 550, ANDROVO MINE, SHUMACHEVSKI DOL, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA A group of semi-transparent, bladed barites with lustrous faces and micro inclusions of pyrite and associated galena on matrix. These are from a new find in the Androvo Mine and are unprecedented from this location. TN. Minor damage as chafing along edges but they all seemed to have some sort of problem. Mined 2007. 2.2 x 2.5 x 2.5 cm.
NSMW7504 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $220. 450/500 LEVEL, BLOCK 22, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA The Kruchev dol Mine is the best location in Madan at this time. Superb galenas in combination with sphalerite, quartz and chalcopyrite are being found in a variety of pockets on two major producing levels, namely, the 450 and 500. Some of the finest specimens in the history of Madan are now available. This is a small cabinet combination of silvery metallic, twinned galena and transparent quartz. The galena is vertically oriented in the center of the specimen with quartzes all around. Sharp and clean specimen from new mining around September, 2007. 4 x 5.5 x 6 cm.
NSMW7498 GALENA PRICE: $225. 450/500 LEVEL, BLOCK 22, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA The Kruchev dol Mine is the best location in Madan at this time. Superb galenas in combination with sphalerite, quartz and chalcopyrite are being found in a variety of pockets on two major producing levels, namely, the 450 and 500. Some of the finest specimens in the history of Madan are now available. This is a small cabinet specimen of spinel twins with superb secondary growth on the octahedron. The secondary faces are aligned in parallel so they reflect brilliantly when rotated. Mined 2007. No damage. 4.5 x 5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW7401 GALENA ON QUARTZ PRICE: $125. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA
NSMW6844 ACTINOLITE PRICE: $35. TALKOVO DEPOSIT, southwest of AVREN VILLAGE, KARDJALI REGION, EASTERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS (Near Greece), BULGARIA Deep green prismatic crystals of actinolite in mica matrix. The location is an asbestos mine in the mountains of Eastern Bulgaria just a stones throw from Greece. The crystals contrast very well with the light micaceous matrix. Collected 2006. 3 x 4.5 x 6 cm.
NSMW6158 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $480. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Combination of wonderfully complex galena crystals and prismatic quartz. The galenas are superbly modified spinel-twins with great luster and sharp form. Many of the specimens from the Kruchev dol Mine do not have either too much quartz or not enough but this one is just right with a fine 'run' of quartzes that track across the center of the specimen and add excellent contrast and visual appeal. In top condition and crystallized on all sides. Mined in January 2006. 5 x 9.5 x 15 cm.
NSMW4340 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $480. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Bright, silvery/gray metallic galenas in combination with light gray prismatic quartz. The galenas are virtually all twinned on the spinel law and are wonderfully complex. The Kruchev dol Mine is currently producing some of the finest galenas in the last 20 years or so. Specimen has an attractive overall shape and is mounded up toward the center for a good three dimensional feel. From advance mining in late 2003. In top condition. 10 x 12 cm.
Madan District. Buying trip in November, 1998. Photo by Ross C. Lillie
Waiting for the smoke to clear before entering stope with metasomatic/replacement ore Djurkovo #2 Mine- 2007
Archival Mining News December 2002 Advance mining continues in the Madan District in the Kruchev dol Mine and the South Petrovitsa Orebody, Borieva Complex. Superb galena specimens are being recovered in association with quartz. Also, mining continues in the Laki district. Production from this district is dominantly calcite with some excellent pseudomorphs of dolomite after calcite being found as well as fine associated quartz. The Deveti Septemvri is finished. An auction for all equipment confirms the end of production form this most famous deposit in Madan. The mines in Zlatograd, namely the Androvo Mine and those near Erma Reka, are being revamped and geared for production. Mining should commence as soon as the workings are cleared and all equipment is operable. This bodes extremely well for specimens in the future. April-September 2002 Mining continues in the South Petrovitsa Orebody of the Borieva Mine and the Kruchev dol Mine in the Madan District. The Erma reka Mine is up and running again in the Zlatograd District. Production continues in the Laki District in the Drujba, and Djurkovo Orebodies. The Mogila Mine of the famous Deveti Septemvri Complex will be auctioned and liquidated in October. This is indeed the end of an era as this orebody was one of the premier producers for decades. September 2001-March 2002 Mining continued in the Madan District with production from the Kruchev dol and Borieva Mines. Excellent specimens of cuboctahedral galena were produced from the Petroviza Vein which is accessed by cross-cut from the Borieva. Also, many fine minerals continued to be found in the Kruchev dol deposit including very fine quartz and sulfide combinations. The Laki District was still active throughout the period. The largest specimen producer here was the Droujba Mine which recovered abundant carbonates and associated quartz. A bid was accepted for the purchase of an 80% stake in the Kombinat za Czvetni Metali smelter near Plovdiv. Basically, the offer was a management buyout so they could participate in the privatization process. Operation of this facility is vital to the continued mining interests in Madan and Laki. June/August 2001 Production continues in the Petrovitza Vein accessed by cross-cut from the south end of the Borieva Mine. This is probably the most promising area of the Madan District for the recovery of excellent specimens. I have seen superb galenas from here (sharp octahedral crystals to 7cm on edge) perched on transparent quartz. Unfortunately, to date, the best material I have seen was damaged either by blasting or during collecting. However, the potential here is tremendous. Mining also continues in the Kruchev dol Mine but is still restricted to pillar robbing and stoping of developed workings. Fine and historically important material is also being collected here. The Luky District is the most actively mined area at present. The specimens produced from here are primarily carbonates and pseudomorphs of carbonates. Sulfides are very uncommon. Overall, polymetallic mining in Bulgaria is struggling to compete on the world scene. April/May 2001 Mining continues in the Luki and Madan Districts with a total of nine operating mining properties. In Madan, the most productive specimen orebodies are the Petroviza Vein, accessed by a cross-cut from the Borieva Mine, and the Kruchev dol Mine. The bulk of ore production for Bulgaria continues to be from the Luki District. In Luki, the majority of specimens are calcites and still coming from the Druzba Mine. The general feeling is that the Kruchev dol, recently reopened, will be operated only for a short period. There is no shaft sinking at the mine and all prodcution is from advance in previously opened stopes and drifts which does not bode well for the future. February/March 2001 Six operating shafts continue to produce material from the Luki District with the bulk of the specimens coming from the Droujba Shaft in the Djurkovo Complex. Predominant species recovered are calcite and quartz with a minor amount of associated sulfides. The fact that there are several operating mines bodes well for the near future. The Kruchev dol remains active in the Madan District and is the only operating mine in this area. Zlatograd is completely closed. Specimens produced from the Kruchev dol are very fine combinations of quartz, sphalerite and galena with associated calcite, pyrite and chalcopyrite. I would strongly encourage anyone to add material from this location to their collection as the viability of this orebody is ephemeral at best. November/December 2000 The Kruchev dol Mine in the Madan District continues to operate on a regular schedule. Specimens are once again being produced from this excellent polymetallic orebody. Look for new quartz, sphalerite, galena and calcite specimens from this orebody in the very near future. Mining also continues in the operating Luky District with three operating mines. The Drujba (Govedarnika), Djurkovo and Pilevo Orebodies (accessed by vertcial shafts and connected by levels) and the Tchetroka Mine are all in production. This district is certainly the most active and profitable area of the polymetallic depostis at present. Luky is located northwest of the Madan area by approximately 70 kilometers or so. Predominantly calcites and quartzes are being recovered here. August/September 2000 Mining commenced once again in the Kruchev dol and Borieva Mines in the Madan District in June and has continued more or less unabated since then. The current project works with a skeleton crew with the intent being to mine on a trial basis in an effort to feed the mill with local ore. Bulgaria is not producing enough tonnage to supply the principal mill and is currently buying foreign concentrate from Turkey to augment production. An employee buyout of the major mill south of Plovdiv is still in negotiation and the privatization process is ongoing. Mining continues in the Luki District with the Tchetroka and Droujba (Djurkovo Complex) mines in full production. The Deveti Septemvri Complex is still on standby status and the pumps are still running which is an excellent sign that production may ultimately recommence. June/July 2000 Mining continues in the Luky District with the Djurkovo and Tchetroka Mines producing a wonderful assortment of calcites and quartzes. A few fine pyrites were also periodically recovered with associated quartz. This month also saw the reopening of the Kruchev dol Mine in the Madan District. However, the situation may be temporary as the funding is tenuous and the operating parties track-record unproven. The remainder of the specimens available is from older collections and stashes. May 2000 The mines in Madan and Zlatograd continue to be on stand-by status with no active mining in progress. Capital infusion is still being sought. Production continues from Luki with two active mines accounting for the activity. April 2000 The lower three levels of the Angel Janakiev Mine are currently flooded due to a pump failure a few weeks earlier. In order to resume production, there is an approximate 2-3 year period to dewater, check timbering and reinstate services to the working levels. Zlatograd is closed and on standby status. The district is pending sale. Madan is also closed and also soliciting outside capital. The Laki district presently has two operating mines. March 2000 Mining in the Laki District is active and is producing a number of very interesting quartz and calcite specimens at present. The Laki area is in the Rhodope Mountains about 100 km northwest of the Madan district. Mining in the Madan and Zlatograd districts has ceased. There are no active operations there at present and reactivation of the mines is dependent on funding. The pumps are still active which is a positive sign but, like the rest of Bulgaria, privatization has proven to be a very difficult process for this famous mining district. Postings of news and information from Bulgaria will be listed and updated here regularly. About three weeks ago in late February there was pump failure in the Madan district. As a result, the following mines were flooded: Krushev dol, Borieva and Angel Ianakiev. These orebodies have historically produced some of the finest specimens from the region. It will be a great loss to the collecting market if these three orebodies are not dewatered and put on-line again.
1998 (Background information) Privatization and Strikes In late November, Gorubso Zlatograd, the state-owned lead-zinc operator, announced they would discontinue mining operations. A wage dispute with striking miners was the cause. As a result, specimens from the Madan/Zlatograd slowed to a trickle. The mines were placed on standby status. In a privatization move, the lead-zinc smelter Olovno-Tsinkov Kompleks was put up for sale. The asking price was not reached and other options were pursued.
1999(Background information) Privatization Continues... In April, a buyer was found for the smelter complex. Comprised of a private investment firm Karjali Invest., and an employee and management consortium the new asking price was reached. In May, an undisclosed bid from a Turkish firm was being considered for Bulgaria's largest lead-zinc smelter KCM, located near Plovdiv. Currently the smelter is being operated at near capacity of 55,000 tons zinc and 40,000 tons lead per year. The mines in Madan continue to be affected by miner's disputes. Zlatograd continues to produce.
END BULGARIAN SECTION
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