Southern Illinois


	*Illinois Fluorite and Associated Minerals*

Illinois fluorites have been a very focused specialty of ours for over 22 years. We exclusively bought and sold Southern Illinois minerals from 1984-1995 until the last operating mines closed for ever. Hundreds of thousands of superb fluorite specimens were produced from these classic Mississippi Valley-Type deposits and the district is arguably the finest fluorite locality in the world. Exceptional specimens of calcite, barite, galena, strontianite, celestite, benstonite, alstonite, quartz and witherite were also found. Even though the mines are permanently closed, we still have powder boxes full of minerals from the Minerva Mine #1, Denton Mine and Annabel Lee Mine to unpack and clean. New specimens from these classic deposits will be posted here regularly and will also be available at shows.

Mahoning Mine #7

Cave-in-Rock District

Ross C. Lillie/ExplorationGeologist in foreground

Fairview Mine-1961

Headframe and loading pocket.

Victory Mine

Carlos Ore body, typical room and pillar stope c. 1946

W.L. Davis No. 1 Mine, 1944

Track- mounted mucker with rubber tired truck

Ozark-Mahoning Company Main Office, Rosiclare

Ross C. Lillie, Exploration Geologist, 1980

Note large fluorite specimen from West Green Mine just to the left of door . Cubes to 20 cm on edge. The corners were later chopped off at night by locals for cleavage octahedrons when prices increased to too tempting levels.

Hill-Ledford Mine

Cave-in-Rock District - 1980

Photo by Ross C. Lillie

Good Hope Mine and Mill

Fairview Fluorspar and Lead Company- c. 1920

S.E. Oxford Mine #11

Cave-in-Rock District- 1979

Photo by Ross C. Lillie

Rosiclare Mine, Rosiclare District

Drilling and mucking in stope- 1946

Denton Mine

Harris Creek District - 1980

Photo by Ross C. Lillie

Ozark-Mahoning Flotation Plant and Mill Rosiclare- 1979

Photo by Ross C. Lillie

Rosiclare Lead & Fluorspar Mining Company

Mine and Mill- c. 1946

Annabel Lee Mine

Harris Creek District- 1980

Photo by Ross C. Lillie

Collecting underground

The base of the Sub-Rosiclare Sandstone can be seen in the back, ie., the roof. Very dark objects in the foreground are actually large fluorite specimens with cubes typically 10-15 cm on edge. The specimens have rolled down the muck pile after the blast. Dr. Ray Guillemette can be seen collecting in the face where the pocket is open and loaded with specimens and spar breccia. Eric Livingston, company geologist, is on left.

Springfield Show 1994

Ross Lillie

Everything in my booth was Illinois fluorite from this time period. I'd fill my van and take about 120-150 flats for sale at every show. This was a great time to be buying as the three major mines were running, namely the Denton, Annabel Lee and Minerva, and there was an abundance of specimens on the market. The lighter blue specimens on the light table are Minerva Mine #1 fluorites and the purple spars Bahama Pod pieces from the Denton Mine. Prices would have ranged from about $45-$250.

Drilling out the face with Jack-Leg

Cave-in-Rock District-1959

(North Green or Hill-Ledford Mine)

Hoist Room

Hill-Ledford Mine

1959

Mucking out the heading

Cave-in-Rock District

(Hill-Ledford Mine)

1959

AMERICAN MINERAL TREASURES

$85./plus shipping

The book that covered what is probably the best Tucson show in history. Fabulous photos of all the major exhibits and custom written accounts from every district. A must-have for anyone interested in American classic localities. 336 pages.

New Minerals On-Line May 29th

NSMW7946 FLUORITE ON BARITE PRICE: $450.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, POE POD, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Deep purple matte luster fluorite isolated over matrix of white barite. The fluorites, typically 1.5-2 cm, have sharp edges and flat cubic surfaces which contrast exceptionally well with the light background. There were a number of these excellent specimens available from active mining in the late 1980s and are essentially unique to the Annabel Lee Mine. This specimen was mined c. 1988. Some of the fluorites have internal cleavage cracks which show up when displayed. Medium cabinet 5.5 x 8 x 12 cm.

New Minerals On-Line May 28th

NSMW7938 CALCITE PRICE: $125.

BETHEL LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, ALLIED CHEMICAL COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

A plate of elongated white calcite scalenohedrons with no point of attachment as the piece was found loose in the pocket. The base is smooth and undulates somewhat which indicates it was likely from on a shale lens or perhaps a ball of barite. These are classic from the Cave-in-Rock Distrcit and nothing quite like them was found elsewhere. A couple of minor cleaves but overall in very good condition especially considering the type of crystals.Mined c. early 1970s. Tom Harris Collection. Small cabinet 4 x 7.5 x 10 cm.

NSMW7935 CALCITE ON FLUORITE PRICE: $380.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, OZARK-MAHONING TRACTS, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Rich, brown/yellow fluorite with purple rims with a preferential druse of light tan/yellow calcite. The fluorite is well hoppered which can be seen as indentations on the calcite encrustations. The form of the calcites and typical coating point to Ozark-Mahoning as the probable locality. Mined c. late 1970s. Tom Harris Collection. Medium cabinet 6.5 x 11 x 13 cm.

NSMW7934 FLUORITE WITH BARITE INCLUSIONS PRICE: $450.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, ALLIED CHEMICAL COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Rich yellow fluorite with light blue and purple zoned rims with associated calcite and strontianite. There are also numerous white barite inclusions which are visible along the interface between the yellow and blue bands. In very excellent condition with only minor nicks on a couple of edges. Mined c. late 1970s. Tom Harris Collection. Medium cabinet 7 x 9 x 13 cm.

NSMW7932 STRONTIANITE PRICE: $380.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, ALLIED CHEMICAL COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Light tan/white, acicular strontianite crystals in tufts, bow-tie like sprays and ball-like aggregates. These specimens were found from a series of superb pockets in the late 1970s and were readily available on the market but they have long since disappeared and are only seen in old collections. In very excellent condition and displays equally well from either side. Mined c. 1977. Tom Harris Collection. Medium cabinet 5.5 x 10 x 14 cm.

New Minerals On-Line May 22nd

NSMW7907 FLUORITE PRICE: $40.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Group of zoned light yellow and purple fluorite with associated calcite and micro chalcopyrites. From advance mining in 1993. In very excellent condition. Miniature 3 x 4.5 x 6 cm.

New Minerals On-Line May 21st

NSMW7889 CALCITE PRICE: $25.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Light honey-colored calcites with a tiny hollow center indicating stalactitic growth. There were a number of these calcites produced from advance mining in the early 1990s and then from pillar robbing in 1995. Miniature in excellent condition from mining in 1995. 2 x 2 x 4 cm.

New Minerals On-Line May 7th

NSMW7868 FLUORITE PRICE: $225.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, TIMBER DRIFT, BAHAMA POD, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

A mound-like group of deeply hoppered fluorite cubes on light gray limestone matrix with associated sphalerite. The deeply etched and indented faces are evidence of copious fluid movement in this pocket. Very minor dings on a couple of crystals and a very excellent example of this type of fluorite with very detailed mine information. EX: George Feist Collection #2124. Small/medium cabinet 4.5 x 6.5 x 7.5 cm. David London Collection L-364.

NSMW7864 FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

A plate of zoned purple fluorite with typical accentuated growth creating a building block appearance on the cube faces. The bottom of the specimen is smooth and slightly curved as it was grown over barite which subsequently dissolved in the pocket. Mined c. 1994. Piece has a couple of minor dings but overall in very good condition. Fine zoning and color. 2.2 x 6 x 8.5 cm. David London Collection L-393.

New Minerals On-Line May 6th

NSMW7859 FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Group of purple fluorites with light blue centers and associated barite. This type of barite in combination with the color of the fluorite and overall luster and size of cubes is very distinctive from the mine. In very excellent condition with only a couple of very tiny nicks. Medium cabinet 5.5 x 8 x 10.5 cm. David London Collection L-411.

NSMW7858 FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Group of zoned yellow/purple and blue fluorites with associated tiny calcites on the base. The specimen was found loose in the pocket as there is no point of attachment. Very distinctive zoning from this part of the mine. Mined c. 1988. Clean and attractive medium cabinet fluorite 5.5 x 10 x 10 cm. David London Collection L-392.

New Minerals On-Line April 25th

NSMW7842 FLUORITE WITH BARITE AND CHALCOPYRITE PRICE: $220.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Group of brownish/yellow fluorite with brassy chalcopyrite and calcite. The fluorite has localized purplish color that is associated with internal etching. A sharp and clean fluorite from advance mining in October 1993. Small/medium cabinet. 4.5 x 7 x 8.5 cm.

NSMW7830 FLUORITE WITH CALCITE PRICE: $225.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Mound of zoned purple and yellow fluorite with brassy chalcopyrite and calcite. The fluorite is sharply formed with internal etching in the centers of the cubes. Classic and distinctive specimen from the mine. Advance mining 1993. In very good condition. 5.5 x 8 x 9 cm.

NSMW7819 FLUORITE WITH BARITE INCLUSIONS PRICE: $180.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Glassy cubes of fluorite zoned in yellow/brown and purple colors with vivid white barite inclusions. The included barite was protected from dissolution by the enclosing fluorite while any barite that was exposed was preferentially etched away leaving spherical indentations. Classic Minerva fluorite from mining c. 1993. Roy Smith Collection. 3.5 x 5 x 8.5

NSMW7818 SPHALERITE ON FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Deep brown, high luster sphalerite on yellow and purple fluorite. The Denton Mine produced a number of superb sphalerites from mining in the late 1980s. This small cabinet is a classic example of the rich overgrowth of zinc/sulfide on fluorite which is so typical of the deposit. There is a thin, re-healed fracture that transects the specimen which was caused by pocket movement and is common from many of the larger holes. Mined c. 1986. Roy Smith Collection. Very attractive. 4.5 x 6 x 7 cm.

NSMW7817 CALCITE PRICE: $65.

BETHEL LEVEL, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Scalenohedral calcites bundled together with associated micro chalcopyrites. A specimen of this type would be found typically on the perimeter of an ore body as the fluorite pinched out and zoned into calcite and barite. It has characteristics of several locations but is very distinctive from the Bethel Level. No point of attachment. Mined c. 1970s. Roy Smith Collection. One cleave on a crystal but you have to really look for it. 4.5 x 6.5 x 10 cm.

NSMW7815 FLUORITE ON SPHALERITE WITH BARITE PRICE: $250.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Rich blue fluorite in combination with deep brown sphalerite and tan barite. Barite, fluorite and sphalerite crystallized simultaneously with barite terminating as a ball-like form, the fluorite as cubes and the sphalerite as complex crystals. However, barite was preferentially dissolved which left a shell-like cast of fluorite and highly distorted and bizarre sphalerite. Classic specimen from the mine: note lower right photo displays the relationship very well. In top condition. Roy Smith Collection. Medium cabinet 6 x 7 x 10.5 cm.

NSMW7812 FLUORITE ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $65.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Richly zoned fluorite on deep brown sphalerite matrix. The fluorite are the classic yellow core surrounded by a light blue and purple rim. Displays very well and exhibits the preferential dissolution of barite very well as the fluorites stand up off the matrix where barite was dissolved. In top condition. Roy Smith Collection. Small cabinet mined c. 1992. 4 x 6.5 x 6.8 cm.

NSMW7795 SPHALERITE ON FLUORITE WITH CALCITE PRICE: $250.

BETHEL LEVEL, GREEN TRACTS, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Combination of deep brown sphalerite, light yellow fluorite and acicular calcites and bladed barites. This association in conjunction with the etched fluorite points toward the Green area of Ozark's mines for the location. I collected many specimens identical to this piece from the East and North Green Tracts. Excellent contrast and a classic upper level specimen from mining c. 1970s. Roy Smith Collection #M1232. Medium cabinet 6 x8 x 10.5 cm.

SOLD

NSMW7791 CALCITE AND FLUORITE PRICE: $65.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Light tan/brown calcite in combination with deep purple fluorite. The specimen has no point of attachment and was found as a 'floater' in the pocket. Note: the fluorite has high glassy luster with low-angle but very sharp secondary forms of tetrahexahedrons. Roy Smith Collection. Mined c. 1995. Small cabinet 4 x 6 x 7 cm.

NSMW7789 CELESTITE PRICE: $125.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Undulating aggregate of light pastel blue celestite with no point of attachment and trace of purple fluorite and hydrocarbons. Prior to the sensational finds of the late 1980s, celestite was one of the rarest species in the district with only a handful of documented specimens in existence. This is a classic example from the early finds in late 1987. Note: two generations of crystals with the primary phase as thousands of micro-crystals and the secondary stage as lustrous defined crystals (lower right photo). No faults. Mined c. Nov/Dec 1987. Roy Smith Collection. Medium cabinet 5 x 6 x 10.5 cm.

NSMW7788 CALCITE ON FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, EDGAR DAVIS MINE AREA, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Light tan lustrous calcites liberally coating deep purple lustrous fluorite with yellow core. The type of calcite and the color of the fluorite are very typical of Ozar-Mahoning tracts from this location. I collected very similar minerals from this ore body in the late 1970s and early 1980s: the location is ascribed by RCL. In top condition and a fine aesthetic specimen from mining c. 1975. Roy Smith Collection. Medium cabinet 6 x 6 x 9 cm.

NSMW7785 BARITE AND FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, MINERVA OIL COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Zoned yellow and purple fluorite on barite. The barite has two very distinct generations as a primary rounded ball-like phase and a secondary sharply bladed phase. Preferential dissolution of the first phase of barite is common and to be expected but what is intriguing and most unusual about this piece is that the secondary phase is of this morphology which is very atypical: most secondary barites is more thickly formed as tabular crystals no in this highly unusual delicately bladed aggregate. Roy Smith Collection. In top condition and a fine small cabinet mined c. 1960s.4 x 5.5 x 5.5 cm.

NSMW7784 CALCITE ON FLUORITE PRICE: $220.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, CROSS-CUT ORE BODY, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Tan/brown calcite grouped like a rosette on top of yellow and purple zoned fluorite. The calcite is colored by copious inclusions of hydrocarbons which is very distinctive of this ore body. Displays from a variety of angles and in top condition. Mined c. 1992. Roy Smith Collection. Very fine small cabinet specimen 6 x 7 x 9 cm.

NSMW7781 FLUORITE WITH CALCITE PRICE: $65.

BETHEL LEVEL, NORTH-END, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Floater cube of zoned yellow and light pastel blue fluorite with associated druse of calcite and micro-chalcopyrites. The fluorite is actually zoned right through the center of the cube on an angle, not parallel to the cube, which is typical of many of the fluorites from this level but extremely rare from other horizons. No damage and displays well from any angle. Etched indentations from true dissolution of the fluorite rather than preferential of barite. Mined c. 1986. Roy Smith Collection. 2.5 x 2.8 x 3 cm.

NSMW7779 FLUORITE PRICE: $20.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Zoned group of yellow and light purple fluorite with good luster and a slight modification by the tetrahex which gives reflections when displayed. Attractive and sharp miniature. One tiny cleave on a fluorite that I did not see when I acquired the piece. Roy Smith Collection. Mined c. 1993. 1.5 x 3 x 4.5 cm.

NSMW7778 FLUORITE WITH BARITE PRICE: $25.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Combination of deep purple, sharp cubes of fluorite and white bladed barite with associated sphalerite. A floater with no point of attachment and just a hint of limestone which indicates that the piece was collected from a highly altered and leached section of the ore body. Mined c. 1989. In top condition. Roy Smith Collection. 2.5 x 2.5 x 2.7 cm.

NSMW7777 WITHERITE PRICE: $65.

BETHEL LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, MINERVA OIL COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Group of elongated pyramidal crystals of waxy lustered witherite complete on all sides with just a small point of attachment on the base with some purple fluorite. Sharp and clean Minerva classic from mining c. 1960s. Roy Smith Collection. 1.8 x 2.3 x 3.1 cm.

NSMW7776 FLUORITE PRICE: $65.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

High luster, richly colored and zoned group of cubic fluorite. Classic Minerva specimen from advance mining c. 1993. No damage. Mined c. 1993. Roy Smith Collection. 2 x 3 x 4 cm.

NSMW7773 CELESTITE ON BARITE WITH CALCITE PRICE: $250.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Combination of light pastel blue celestite on bright white barite with numerous snow/white balls of calcite sprinkled over the celestite. There was only one pocket of these found and as such this is an extremely rare specimen. Note: the barite is pseudmorphic after celestite. In top condition and a very high quality small cabinet/miniature from advance mining in November 1987. Roy Smith Collection. 3 x 5 x 6.5 cm.

NSMW7762 CALCITE WITH FLUORITE PRICE: $20.

BETHELLEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Blade-like group of white calcites with associated purple fluorite. No point of attachment and no faults. Fine miniature from mining c. 1993. Roy Smith Collection. 1.5 x 3 x 4.5 cm.

NSMW7757 SPHALERITE WITH BARITE AND FLUORITE PRICE: $550.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, SOUTH-END, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

High luster, black sphalerite on zoned purple and yellow fluorite with associated transparent bladed barite and tiny chalcopyrites. The overall cubic form of the fluorite can be seen as the sphalerite has 'capped' the fluorite as a rich druse. This specimen is most likely from the 'Butterknife Pod' as the date of acquisition is 1985. In top condition and a very attractive specimen. Roy Smith Collection #M676. Cabinet specimen 4.5 x 7.5 x 14 cm.

NSMW7751 QUARTZ ON FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, W.L.DAVIS/DEARDORFF COMPLEX, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

A group of glassy lustered zoned fluorites in combination with very sharp quartz crystals. The quartzes are very well developed as they exhibit prismatic faces which are typically absent on most examples from the district. Rare to find quartz on the fluorite as the spar is typically later. Moderate damage to the fluorites but a very attractive and significant specimen nonetheless. Mined c. 1950s. Roy Smith Collection. 4 x 6.5 x 9 cm.

NSMW7750 FLUORITE WITH GALENA PRICE: $225.

GASKINS MINE, MINERVA OIL COMPANY, POPE COUNTY, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Rosy purple fluorite with tinges of light pastel blue in combination with steely gray galena and drusy barite don reverse. The fluorite has an etched surface and in conjunction with the distinctive blue rims, overall color and association with etched galenas and light yellow barites confirms the location. Mined c. early 1970s. Roy Smith Collection. #M853. One small cleave on a fluorite which may be seen on upper right of top photo but otherwise in top condition. 5.5 x 6 x 9.5 cm.

NSMW7738 FLUORITE WITH BARITE PRICE: $250.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

A group of purple and light brown/yellow zoned fluorites with hoppered faces with associated deep yellow lustrous barites. A very attractive combination from mining c. 1989. Roy Smith Collection. Note: I have examined this specimen in detail and it appears that the larger barite may have been glued back on matrix. I cannot tell for certain but I suspect this is the case. Also, there appears to be one other 'spot' of glue on the fluorite where something may have fallen off. Certainly, the barite and the fluorite are from the same pocket, though, so the association is correct. Please be aware of this before expressing interest in this piece. Medium cabinet 6.5 x 7.5 x 12 cm.

NSMW7737 CALCITE ON FLUORITE PRICE: $450.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, BAHAMA POD, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Orange/brown calcites liberally sprinkled over purple fluorite with associated chalcopyrites. The calcites are very gemmy and contrast well with the fluorite. The Bahama Pod was the source of the finest calcites ever produced from the district. This is a medium cabinet specimen from advance mining c. 1992. Sharp and clean and very attractive piece. Roy Smith Collection. 5.5 x 8 x 8.5 cm.

NSMW7736 SPHALERITE WITH CALCITE PRICE: $280.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, W.L. DAVIS/DEARDORFF COMPLEX, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

High luster plate of black sphalerites with associated calcites. The Davis/Deardorff was the richest mine in the district and produced a number of fantastic sulfides during the life of the mine. This piece was likely mined c. 1950s and is in top condition. Classic in terms of appearance and morphology. Mined c. 1950s. Roy Smith Collection. 3 x 8 x 8 cm.

NSMW7734 CALCITE PRICE: $220.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, CROSS-CUT ORE BODY, MINERVA MINE #1, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Groups of bundled acicular calcites grouped into an elongated mound-like form with associated fluorite. The specimen is actually a floater with no point of attachment. A very fine and aesthetic specimen and a classic Minerva Mine specimen. Roy Smith Collection. In top condition. Advance mining in 1992. 4 x 6 x 8.5 cm.

NSMW7733 FLUORITE PRICE: $220.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Purple fluorite on sphalerite-rich limestone matrix. The fluorites are strikingly modified on the corners and on close examination the orientation is on the trisoctahedron which is highly unusual. Most of the modifications that occur are on the dodec face or the tetrahex. Displays very well and in top condition. Roy Smith Collection #M675. 3.5 x 6.5 x 12 cm.

NSMW7732 GALENA ON FLUORITE PRICE: $850.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Combination of bright, silvery/metallic galena with blue fluorite and associated barite, sphalerite and chalcopyrite. This is from the best galena pocket ever found in the mine. Numerous superb galenas on blue fluorite were found from a hole in the lower portion of the face. The vug was filled with breccia and most, if not all, of the galenas were upside down as the pocket had become unstable and slowly collapsed into the center. As such, the specimens were found loose in the pocket and were 'floaters'. I acquired this specimen in November, 1988 from a miner in the county and sold it to Mr. Smith. Consequently, there are three labels with the piece, two from me and one from the Smith Collection. In top condition. Mined November, 1988. Roy Smith Collection #M1553. 7.5 x 9 x 13.5 cm.

NSMW7729 CELESTITE PRICE: $250.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Elongated mound-like specimen of celestite with associated calcite. The celestite is present as two generations with the first phase thousands of tiny drusy crystals and the second stage as larger (typically 0.5 cm), more blue complex forms. This is a very fine medium/large cabinet specimen from the ore body as most of these were much smaller and less impressive. In top condition from advance mining c. late 1987. Roy Smith Collection. 7 x 8 x 18 cm.

NSMW7724 FLUORITE PRICE: $350.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Group of zoned yellow and blue cubes with abundant deeper purple 'spots' liberally scattered just within and on the surface. Many of these have tiny micro crystals of chalcopyrite which may have caused the coloration by disrupting the structure. Sharp and clean and very displayable and fine fluorite from mining c. 1993. Roy Smith Collection. Medium cabinet. 5 x 10 x 12. 5 cm.

NSMW7723 CELESITE AND CALCITE ON FLUORITE PRICE: $450.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Purple fluorite in combination with bright, snowy/white calcite and pastel blue celestite. The celestite exhibits some dissolution and re-growth as later-stage crystals on the calcite. One celestite (lower photo) is partially hollow and shows fine calcite balls within the center. These are very rare from the district and difficult to acquire. Mined c. November/December 1987. No damage. Roy Smith Collection. Medium cabinet. 5 x 7 x 9 cm.

NSMW7722 FLUORITE WITH CHALCOPYRITE PRICE: $350.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, NORTH-END, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Brownish/yellow fluorite with purple rims in association with bright, brassy chalcopyrites. The fluorites exhibit etched interiors with the inclusions resembling cones that point toward the centers of the cubes. sharp, clean and a very excellent piece from advance mining c. 1984. Classic North-End spar. Roy Smith Collection. No damage. 5.5 x 6 x 9 cm.

NSMW7721 GALENA AND FLUORITE WITH SPHALERITE PRICE: $480.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Combination of exceptionally bright, silvery/metallic galena, lustrous black sphalerite and zoned purple/blue with dyellow centered fluorite. The Annabel Lee Mine along with the Denton Mine, were the two operations that produced a number of superb galenas from the early 1980s to 1995. The quality and associations with other minerals places this district at the top of ladder for sulfides. The only other mine that rivals these is the Davis/Deardorff and on occasion the Hill-Ledford. This is a very fine and attractive medium cabinet from mining c. 1986. Sharp, bright and undamaged. Excellent piece. Roy Smith Collection. 4.8 x 5 x 10.5 cm.

NSMW7719 FLUORITE WITH CALCITE PRICE: $450.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Zoned purple and yellow fluorite with associated bright, glassy lustered calcites. The fluorite is deeply hoppered with secondary cubes randomly oriented within the centers. In very excellent condition and a sharp and attractive specimen from advance mining c. 1986. Roy Smith Collection. 5.5 x 7 x 10 cm.

NSMW7714 FLUORITE PRICE: $1500.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Richly zoned group of fluorites with abundant inclusions of chalcopyrite. The cubes are hoppered in the centers with raised rims around the edges that are blue and the chalcopyrites are collected at the interface between the blue and yellow zones which is separated by a vivid purple band. This is a classic Denton Mine fluorite both in terms of color and luster. Judging from the color and light gray associated limestone on the matrix I would ascribe the location as the North-End and the date of mining as c. 1984. Specimens this nice were never common even when the mines were running. Displays well from a couple of angles and an exceptionally fine medium cabinet specimen at 8 x 10 x 14 cm. One tiny nick along one cube face that does not demonstrably detract when displayed. Roy Smith Collection.

NSMW7713 CALCITE PRICE: $450.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, CROSS-CUT OREBODY, MINERVA MINE #1, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Groups of bundled acicular calcites stacked up in a very aesthetic sculptural form. A great cabinet specimen from this important find and virtually displays from any angle as there is no point of attachment. Roy Smith Collection #M1538. Advance mining in 1992. 9.5 x 9.5 x 12.5 cm.

NSMW7706 FLUORITE WITH CHALCOPYRITE PRICE: $225.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, NORTH-END, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Group of very sharp cubic crystals with associated brassy chalcopyrites and calcite. Simply a fine classic Denton fluorite. In top condition. Mined c. 1984. Roy Smith Collection. 4 x 5 x 7 cm.

NSMW7701 FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

BETHEL LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Zoned yellow and light purplish/blue fluorite with good luster and well developed tetrahex modifications. This specimen was mined c. 1995 during pillar robbing operations but the section it was first mined from by Minerva Oil Company goes back to the late 1940s just near the shaft. So, this is the type of material that was coming out in the early glory days of the mine. In top condition. Roy Smith Collection. Fine small cabinet at 4 x 5 x 5.5 cm.

NSMW7699 FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Gemmy, light purple glassy lustered fluorite with associated calcite and light reddish/brown sphalerite. This is an exceptionally fine quality miniature fluorite because it has such good transparency and sharp cubes. Note: well-developed tetrahex modifications. Roy Smith Collection. Very fine miniature in top condition. Mined c. 1992. 2.5 x 3 x 3.8 cm.

NSMW7698 CALCITE WITH BARITE PRICE: $85.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Parallel stacks of calcite crystals with associated white barite. The calcites are slightly curved into rosette forms and have a satin luster. Very distinctive specimen from advance mining c. 1993. In top condition. Roy Smith Collection. 3 x 3 x 5 cm.

NSMW7691 STRONTIANITE PRICE: $450.

BETHEL LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Radiating spray of acicular strontianite with trace of light blue fluorite. Typical elongated spiky crystals with some curved terminations indicating strontianite as the species rather than calcite. This is a very fine group with excellent size and symmetry. From mining c. 1960s. Roy Smith Collection. In excellent condition. Small cabinet 4 x 5.5 x 6.5 cm.

NSMW7688 SPHALERITE WITH GALENA PRICE: $85.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, W.L. DAVIS/DEARDORFF COMPLEX, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Lustrous, black sphalerites with associated galena, chalcopyrite, quartz and calcite. The Davis-Deardorff Complex produced what are arguably the finest sphalerite from the district. Huge crystals to 6 cm were found from the richest bedded ore body ever mined in the district. This is a small cabinet specimen with an elongated mound form and the classic flat faced crystals in combination with complex intergrowths and typical associated species. Roy Smith Collection. Mined c. early 1970s probably under Minerva's leasing program with Ozark as Mr. Smith indicates that this as a Minerva piece. Very minor abrasion to a few crystals. 3 x 3.5 x 7 cm.

NSMW7686 FLUORITE WITH CALCITE PRICE: $280.

BETHEL LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Rosy purple fluorite with a light yellow core and very pronounced and well developed hoppered surface. The cubes are very sharp on the edges as the centers are indented from preferential dissolution of the main faces with partial re-growth. Excellent aesthetics and form and in top condition. A very fine small cabinet specimen from mining c. 1960s. Roy Smith Collection. In top condition. Mined c. 1993. Associated chalcopyrites. Note: Mr. Smith indicates the locality as Minerva but the calcites could point to Ozark ore bodies as well. In any case, the specimen is definitely from the deposits of Cave-in-Rock. 4.5 x 7 x 7.5 cm.

NSMW7685 CALCITE PRICE: $35.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, MINERVA OIL COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Floater specimen of acicular aggregates of calcite arranged in bundles and wheat-sheaf like groups. The calcites have an almost chatoyant luster from parallel reflections along the scalenohedral faces and multiple terminations. Roy Smith Collection. In top condition. Mined c. 1960s. 4.5 x 5.5 x 6 cm.

NSMW7683 FLUORITE PRICE: $25.

BETHEL LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Miniature fluorite with fine luster and rich yellow color with light purple rims. There is a small fragment of silicified sandstone on the matrix which nails the location. Minor damage to a couple of cubes on side not best for display. Roy Smith Collection. Mined c. 1993. 2.5 x 3.5 x 5 cm.

NSMW7681 FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Bright lemon yellow fluorite with local shading of pale aqua blue. The fluorites display numerous small hollowed out, spherical areas on the surfaces from preferential dissolution of barite. Upon close examination, there are also inclusions of snow-white barite. Medium cabinet. Roy Smith Collection. Mined c. 1993. 3.5 x 6 x 9 cm.

NSMW7680 FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Deep purple fluorite over a yellow core and multiple chalcopyrites scattered across the surface. No point of attachment. In top condition. Medium cabinet. Roy Smith Collection. Mined c. 1988. 4 x 6.5 x 8.5 cm.

NSMW7673 GALENA AND FLUORITE PRICE: $280.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Combination of galena and purple fluorite with associated brown sphalerite. The galenas are cubic (the largest crystal 3.8 x 4 cm) with octahedral modifications and a medium slate gray color and sub-metallic luster. There were a number of very fine galenas found in the Annabel Lee Mine in the latter 1980s from a series of pockets on multiple levels. This mine is one of the premier locations for the species. This specimen is a medium cabinet with good display aesthetics. Mined c. 1989. Very minor edge rubbing along large crystal and some natural pocket rotation abrasion but overall in very fine condition. 6 x 9 x 10 cm.

NSMW7596 FLUORITE PRICE: $65.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, BAHAMA POD, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

NSMW7589 FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Fluorite octahedrons, or diamonds as they are locally called, are one of the most recognizable collectible from southern Illinois. Literally millions of them made their way out of the county and into collections all over the world. Polished octahedrons and fluorites carvings have been around for decades and were either fashioned by the miners or local citizens who sold them as souvenirs or kept them as collectibles. They can make a great sub-collection from the district. This is a rich, gemmy yellow octahedron with beveled edges and excellent brilliance. Gem canary yellow octahedrons are some of the most rare from the district and the Denton Mine was one of the finest sources. Mined c. 1994. 2.5 cm on edge.

NSMW7588 FLUORITE PRICE: $65.

DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

NSMW7587 FLUORITE PRICE: $65.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Fluorite octahedrons, or diamonds as they are locally called, are one of the most recognizable collectible from southern Illinois. Literally millions of them made their way out of the county and into collections all over the world. Polished octahedrons and fluorites carvings have been around for decades and were either fashioned by the miners or local citizens who sold them as souvenirs or kept them as collectibles. They make a great sub-collection from the district. This diamond has an optical zone right through the center with veiled sections on either side. There were a number of these octahedrons chipped from a localized section in the mine in the early 1990s. They are very unique and distinctive of this section of the mine. Fine beveled edges. 2.5 cm on edge.

NSMW7586 FLUORITE PRICE: $150.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, BAHAMA POD, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

NSMW7585 FLUORITE PRICE: $65.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, BAHAMA POD, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Fluorite octahedrons, or diamonds as they are locally called, are one of the most recognizable collectible from southern Illinois. Literally millions of them made their way out of the county and into collections all over the world. Polished octahedrons and fluorites carvings have been around for decades and were either fashioned by the miners or local citizens who sold them as souvenirs or kept them as collectibles. They can make a fine addition from this great district. I have a good representative suite of these in my southern Illinois collection, and, in a brazen sales suggestion, I highly recommend anyone interested in the district to add a sub-suite of these as well. These pieces are bright, very colorful and exceptionally well polished. This is a beautiful light purple diamond with beveled edges and a small petroleum inclusion that gives it more interest than normal. Mined 1993. 2.5 x 2.5 x 2.5 cm.

NSMW7584 FLUORITE PRICE: $45.

BETHEL LEVEL, ANNABEL LEE MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Fluorite octahedrons, or diamonds as they are locally called, are one of the most recognizable collectible from southern Illinois. Literally millions of them made their way out of the county and into collections all over the world. Polished octahedrons and fluorites carvings have been around for decades and were either fashioned by the miners or local citizens who sold them as souvenirs or kept them as collectibles. They can make an excellent sub-collection from the district. I have a good representative suite of these in my southern Illinois collection, and, in a brazen sales suggestion, I highly recommend anyone interested in the district to add a sub-suite of these as well. All of the polished pieces are bright, very colorful and exceptionally well polished. This is a zoned blue and yellow diamond with fine inclusions of chalcopyrite and etched areas along the interface between the two colors which adds considerable interest to the piece. Mined c. 1993. 2.6 cm on edge.

NSMW7583 FLUORITE PRICE: $100.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Fluorite octahedrons, or diamonds as they are locally called, are one of the most recognizable collectible from southern Illinois. Literally millions of them made their way out of the county and into collections all over the world. Polished octahedrons and fluorites carvings have been around for decades and were either fashioned by the miners or local citizens who sold them as souvenirs or kept them as collectibles. They make a great sub-collection from this great district. I have a fine representative suite of these in my southern Illinois collection, and, in a brazen sales suggestion, I highly recommend anyone interested in the district to add a sub-suite of these as well. These are bright, very colorful and exceptionally well polished diamonds. This piece is a high quality blue diamond with superb transparency and excellent polish. The edges have been polished as well which imparts an almost faceted look. Classic Denton Mine color from mining c. 1994. 3 cm on edge.

NSMW7582 FLUORITE PRICE: $125.

SUB-ROSICLARE LEVEL, BAHAMA POD, DENTON MINE, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, HARRIS CREEK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Polished fluorite strikingly banded in shades of purples and with abundant inclusions of brassy chalcopyrite. There were a number of great specimens that came from this time period and those that had too much damage were cleaved into octahedrons. Excellent polish and good size. Flat base allows for vertical display. Mined 1992-1993. 3.5 x 3.5 x 4.5 cm.

NSMW7443 FLUORITE PRICE: $250.

ROSICLARE LEVEL, MINERVA MINE #1, OZARK-MAHONING COMPANY, CAVE-IN-ROCK DISTRICT, SOUTHERN ILLINOIS

Glassy lustered transparent cubic fluorite with a sharp purple zone separating a light yellow core and light blue rim. The specimen has a nice overall visual balance very attractive sheen. Mined 1992. 5 x 6 x 7 cm.