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BULGARIA
Rhodope Mountains About 5 km from Madan - 2010
Aerial Tram Way Cars are full on the left and return empty on the right after dumping at the mill Madan District - 2010
Aerial Tram Way Madan District - 2010
MINING NEWS June 2010 Seven mines are running in Madan, Zlatograd and the Laki Districts. The Gjudurska Mine is still the stellar producer. However, the great stopes of 2009 that produced the superb cube/octahedrons with mirror luster are exhausted. I believe that these galenas are some of the finest ever found in the district and rank with the best in the world. Laki is still very slow in terms of specimens even though the Djurkovo and Drujba Mines are operating.
On-Line August 26th
NSMW9744 PYRITE PRICE: $20. PTCHELOJAD MINE, KARDJALI OBLAST, EASTERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (TN) Perfect pyritohedron with iridescent reddish/brown color. Excellent TN from this location and rare on the marketplace. 1 cm in diameter.
NSMW9743 PYRITE PRICE: $20. PTCHELOJAD MINE, KARDJALI OBLAST, EASTERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (TN) Perfect pyritohedron with matte brass color. Excellent TN from this location and rare on the marketplace. Has one contact point where it was apparently touching another crystal. Trivial edge nick. 1.4 cm in diameter. On-Line August 4th
NSMW9734 RHODOCHROSITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $SOLD ENYOVCHE MINE, KARDJALI, EASTERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Bright pastel pink curved rhodochrosite crystals with light druse of sparkly quartz and some micro chalcopyrites. Rare and in great condition. Mined 1999. 4.5 x 5.5 x 7 cm.
NSMW9733 DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE PRICE: $SOLD GOVEDARNIKA MINE, LAKI DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small/medium cabinet) Skeletal casts of dolomite after calcite showing spear point calcite scalenohedrons replaced by drusy dolomite. Nice rarity from the 'old' days. Mined 1988. In great condition. 5 x 8 x 9 cm.
NSMW9732 CALCITE ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $SOLD BORIEVA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small/medium cabinet) Group of ball-like black sphalerite clusters in combination with oriented druse of lustrous white calcite. In great condition and a real rarity from the 'old' days. Mined 1992. 4 x 7.5 x 10 cm.
NSMW9731 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $400. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Very high quality galena group on chloritic matrix. Modified crystals and Spinel Law twins. Isolated matrix pieces are very rare and especially in such fine condition. One, very tiny nick on one crystal. Mined 2010. 5.5 x 5.5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW9730 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $SOLD GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Group of modified galena perched on top of matrix with associated sphalerite and quartz. Nice form and balance. Has a couple of small nicks. Mined 2010. 4 x 5.5 x 7 cm.
NSMW9729 GALENA PRICE: $SOLD GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) High quality, sharp, bright silvery metallic galena group formed into a three-dimensional mound. Octahedron and cube faces predominate. Tiny nick along 'back' side of top crystal. Mined 2010. 4 x 4.5 x 5.7 cm.
NSMW9728 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $SOLD GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Sharp galena crystals isolated on drusy quartz matrix with associated black sphalerite. Very fine specimen from mining in 2010. Trivial edge nicks on a couple of crystals. 2 x 6.5 x 7.5 cm.
NSMW9727 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $250. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Mounded group of modified galena on sphalerite matrix. Choice specimen from advance mining in 2010. Trivial nick on one crystal. 4 x 6 x 6 cm.
NSMW9726 PYRITE ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $SOLD GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Very bright, brassy metallic pyrite on sphalerite. Pristine luster. Major crystal has a couple of tiny edge nicks. Mined 2010. 3 x 7 x 7 cm.
NSMW9725 GALENA PRICE: $350. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Bright, silvery metallic modified galena crystals on matrix. One single crystal perched at the upper left is twinned on the Spinel Law. Highly aesthetic and well balanced specimen with beautiful crystals. Has a couple of minor edge nicks. Mined 2010. 2.7 x 5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW9724 PYRITE AND GALENA PRICE: $75. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Combination of very sharp cubic, striated pyrite and rounded modified galena. There is a light film of chlorite on the specimen which I intentionally left intact in order to show the original condition of many pieces collected from the mine. In great condition. Mined 2010. 4 x 6 x 7 cm.
NSMW9723 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $280. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Sharp, modified galena crystals well isolated on sphalerite matrix. Cube, octahedron and Spinel Law twins present on the nicely balanced specimen. Very minor nicks on a couple of edges. Mined 2010. 4.5 x 6.5 x 7.5 cm.
On-Line April 21st
NSMW9659 AGATE PRICE: $15. GORNA KULA VILLAGE, near KARDJALI CITY, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Cut and polished agate halves from a location well known to Bulgarian collectors. No faults. Each half approx. 2.5 x 3.0 cm.
NSMW9658 AGATE PRICE: $SOLD GORNA KULA VILLAGE, near KARDJALI CITY, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Cut and polished agate halves from a location well known to Bulgarian collectors. No faults. Each half approx. 2.5 x 3.0 cm.
NSMW9657 AGATE PRICE: $15. GORNA KULA VILLAGE, near KARDJALI CITY, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Cut and polished agate halves from a location well known to Bulgarian collectors. No faults. Each half approx. 2.5 x 3.0 cm.
NSMW9656 AGATE PRICE: $SOLD GORNA KULA VILLAGE, near KARDJALI CITY, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Cut and polished agate halves from a location well known to Bulgarian collectors. No faults. Each half approx. 2.5 x 3.5 cm.
NSMW9654 AGATE PRICE: $15. GORNA KULA VILLAGE, near KARDJALI CITY, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Cut and polished agate halves from a location well known to Bulgarian collectors. No faults. Each half approx. 2.5 x 3.5 cm.
NSMW9652 AGATE PRICE: $15. GORNA KULA VILLAGE, near KARDJALI CITY, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Cut and polished agate halves from a location well known to Bulgarian collectors. No faults. Each half approx. 2.5 x 3.5 cm.
NSMW9651 AGATE PRICE: $15. GORNA KULA VILLAGE, near KARDJALI CITY, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Cut and polished agate halves from a location well known to Bulgarian collectors. No faults. Each half approx. 2.5 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW9618 SPHALERITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $15. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) High luster, jet black triangular sphalerite in combination with transparent quartz. Nice miniature from mining c. 1990s. I can find two tiny broken quartz crystals which are set towards the lower front. 2.5 x 3 x 3.5 cm.
NSMW9612 PYRITE AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $40. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Cluster of sharp, brassy metallic pyrites set right at the top of a sphalerite matrix. Choice miniature from the locality. In great condition. 3.5 x 4 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW9611 PYRITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $45. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Very bright, brassy pristine crystals of pyrite on light greenish drusy quartz. Pyrite may be a common mineral from other districts but really nice specimens like this are relatively hard to come by in Zlatograd. This piece is very clean with excellent aesthetics and displays from several angles. Mined 2009. 3.5 x 4.5 x 5 cm.
NSMW9607 GALENA PRICE: $SOLD BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Group of very bright silvery metallic galena on sphalerite. Several of the galena crystals show open spaces on the surface that indicate very rapid growth and some have concave indentations which reflect fluid inclusions. Also, there are curved lines across some of the faces caused by multiple stages of growth. Displays very well and in excellent condition. Mined November 2009. 4.5 x 5.5 x 10.5 cm.
NSMW9606 GALENA PRICE: $200. BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Very bright, silvery metallic galena group with cube and octahedron faces and associated quartz. Mined November 2009 and in great condition. 4.5 x 6 x 9 cm.
NSMW9574 DOLOMITE ON CALCITE PRICE: $65. DRUJBA MINE, LAKI DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Group of sharply formed calcites with no point of attachment. There is a light druse of tan dolomite on the surface and the base has been naturally spalled off the pocket wall and recrystallized with a second phase of calcite which is rhombic. Mined ca. 2005. In great condition. 4 x 4.5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW9567 QUARTZ AND CALCITE PRICE: $15. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, ERMA REKA, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (TN) Single quartz crystal, 15 mm, with a calcite disk perched on the side with associated chalcopyrite on the quartz. In great condition. Mined 1980. 1.5 x 1.5 x 1.7 cm.
NSMW9563 GALENA PRICE: $125. BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Very bright, silvery metallic galena group. Cube and octahedron forms with some penetration twins. Mined November 18-21, 2009. Trivial edge wear. 3 x 3.5 x 6 cm.
NSMW9562 GALENA AND CALCITE PRICE: $200. CENTRAL PETROVITZA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Silvery metallic galena group on matrix with associated calcite. The galena crystals are mostly cubic with rounded and dissolved portions and modifications by octahedrons. Mined in 2009. One very small nick on one edge of crystal towards center but overall in great condition. 3 x 5 x 5.5 cm.
NSMW9561 GALENA AND CALCITE PRICE: $250. BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Cubic galena modified by octahedrons on quartz with associated sphalerite. Very aesthetic and displayable specimen with the crystals well separated on matrix. Mined in November 2009. Trivial edge nicks on a couple of crystals. 5.5 x 7 x 8 cm.
NSMW9560 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $250. BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Exceptionally high luster galena on sphalerite with associated tiny quartz crystals. Numerous indentations on the galena faces indicate fluid inclusions. Choice specimen from the stalactitic pocket of November 18-21, 2009. In great condition. 4 x 5 x 9.5 cm.
NSMW9559 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $80. BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Bright, silvery metallic galena in combination with lustrous black sphalerite. The galena exhibits hoppered surfaces dominated by cubes and octahedrons. Mined November 2009. In great condition. 5 x 6 x 8 cm.
NSMW9558 GALENA WITH QUARTZ ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $250. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Very sharp and distinct galena cubes modified by octahedrons on lustrous black sphalerite with associated quartz and chalcopyrite. Mined in November 2009. In great condition. 3 x 5 x 9 cm.
NSMW9557 GALENA WITH PYRITE AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $280. BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) V-shaped group of silvery metallic galena protruding off a sphalerite matrix with associated iridescent pyrite. Rounded and partially dissolved crystals of galena with complex morphology. Mined November 2009. 4 x8 x 10.5 cm.
NSMW9556 GALENA AND CALCITE PRICE: $2500. BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Large cabinet) Very bright, silvery metallic group of galena with associated bladed greenish calcite and tiny transparent quartz. This is the best large stalactitic galena groups I acquired from the pocket. It has only one small attachment point on the base (third photo from top) that shows concentric growth compatible with stalactites. The miners who found the specimens recalled that these specimens were hanging from the top of the pocket. In all of my experience in Bulgaria, over 15 years now, I have never seen this type of morphology. An amazing specimen. One small cleave on a crystal off to the right edge but otherwise in great condition. Mined November 18-21, 2009. 7.5 x 12.5 x 17.5 cm.
NSMW9555 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $125. BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Transparent quartz on melted-looking high sheen galena. There is an abundance of chlorite that imparts a green hue. Mined in November 2009 from a unique occurrence. A couple of quartzes are broken on the back side but overall in excellent condition. 7 x 7 x 12 cm.
NSMW9554 GALENA AND SPHALERITE ON CHALCOPYRITE PRICE: $600. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) There was only one occurrence of these large chalcopyrites in combination with sharp slightly hoppered galena and lustrous black sphalerite. The sphalerite is cup-like in form and is encrusting the chalcopyrite and from partial dissolution and re-growth is slightly raised up off the chalcopyrite. The galena is exceptionally sharp and high luster. An excellent specimen in great condition from this find in early 2009. 6.5 x 6.5 x 9.5 cm.
NSMW9514 BARITE PRICE: $60. ANDROVO MINE, ERMA REKA, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Bladed barite shaped like an arrow head and with associated drusy quartz. Fine lustrous, semi-transparent crystals. Only one location in Bulgaria produces these barites. Mined 2009. In great condition. 2.5 x 4 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW9513 PYRITE AND GALENA PRICE: $25. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Combination of bright brassy pyrite and steely gray galena. Mined 2009. In great condition. 2.5 x 3 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW9512 QUARTZ AFTER CALCITE WITH BARITE PRICE: $25. ANDROVO MINE, ERMA REKA, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) A shell of drusy quartz after calcite with a lustrous white barite perched on the top. Only one location in Bulgaria produces this combination. Mined 2009. In great condition. 3 x 3.5 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW9511 GALENA WITH QUARTZ AND CALCITE PRICE: $180. BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Very bright silvery metallic galena with associated bladed calcite and gemmy transparent quartz. Nice mounded from well crystallized on all sides. Mined November 18-21, 2009. In great condition. 5 x 7 x 9.5 cm.
NSMW9510 GALENA ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $125. BLOCK 18, LEVEL 734, GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Highly complex modified cubic galena with silvery metallic sheen of very high quality. Sphalerite matrix. Mined November 18-21, 2009. In great condition. 4 x 5.5 x 8 cm.
NSMW9509 PYRITE PRICE: $25. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Brassy metallic group of pyrite with associated sphalerite. Very nice miniature in great condition. 2.7 x 3 x 4.8 cm.
ON APPROVAL NSMW9471 GALENA ON QUARTZ PRICE: $400. SOUTH-END, MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Modified cubic galena perched on a plate of drusy quartz. Picture perfect crstallographic galena. An excellent display specimen in great condition from this most famous location in Bulgaria. From workings mined ca. 1975. 2.5 x 6 x 8 cm .
NSMW9470 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $650. LEVEL 450, BLOCK 22, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Bright, silvery metallic highly complex Spinel Law galena twin on quartz matrix. This specimen came from the best section of the mine for Spinel Law twins. The block of ground is mined out and only broken ore being loaded from draw points. An excellent specimen in all regards and in great condition. Sawn base to trim off matrix. Mined 2008.4.5 x 7.5 x 7.5 cm.
NSMW9466 GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $250. CENTRAL PETROVITZA MINE, BORIEVA COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Cube of galena modified by octahedrons perched up on dome-like matrix of quartz and sphalerite with associated pyrite. A text book crystal in great condition. Mined 2009. 6 x 6.5 x 8 cm.
NSMW9464 QUARTZ WITH CALCITE AND GALENA PRICE: $SOLD KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Divergent spray of quartz with a light snowy druse of calcite and associated galena. A pretty specimen from new mining in 2008. Has a couple of broken terminations off to the sides. 5 x 6 x 6 cm.
NSMW9450 PYRITE WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $SOLD KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Very pretty combination of brassy cubic pyrite and transparent quartz. The specimen is crystallized on all sides and mounded into a three dimensional form. One of the nicest combinations of these I have acquired. It has some small amount of damage which can be seen towards front of the pyrite in the lower photo but it's still an excellent piece. Mined ca. 2008. 6 x 6.5 x 7 cm.
NSMW9418 GALENA AND CALCITE PRICE: $250. CENTRAL PETROVITZA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Combination of mirror bright galena and creamy tan calcite with associated quartz and chalcopyrite. The galena contrasts exceptionally well with the calcite. Mined 2009. Small break on the chalcopyrite which I did not see when purchased. 4.5 x 6 x 7.5 cm.
NSMW9417 GALENA WITH PYRITE PRICE: $220. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small cabinet) Group of rounded and melted looking galena with associated brassy pyrite. The forms are cubic with octahedral modifications and the surface texture is mottled with dissolution features and some hoppered faces. Mined 2009 and in great condition. An excellent piece. 5 x 6 x 7 cm.
NSMW9415 GALENA WITH SPHALERITE PRICE: $200. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Combination of rounded cube/octahedral galena and lustrous black sphalerite. The specimen has really good balance with just enough galena in contrast with sphalerite for display. Mined in 2009. In great condition and a very fine miniature. 3.5 x 3.5 x 6 cm.
NSMW9414 GALENA WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $200. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Exceptionally high quality galena miniature from new mining in 2009. Excellent luster and form and complete on all sides. In great condition. 2.5 x 3 x 3 cm.
NSMW9309 CALCITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $SOLD NORTH-END, MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Unique specimen in my experience of a single quartz crystal partially overgrown by smoky gray lustrous calcite. Perfect for an advanced collection of Madan minerals. From workings mined c. 1975. One very small ding on the quartz. 5.5 x 7.5 x 10.5 cm.
NSMW9306 SPHALERITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium cabinet) Divergent spray of semi-transparent quartz in combination with black sphalerite. Choice form and in great condition. Mined 2008. 5 x 8.5 x 9.5 cm.
NSMW9305 GALENA WITH CALCITE PRICE: $350. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Mounded group of galena with light druse of light brown dolomite and a few scattered calcite crystals. The galena is mostly cubic great metallic sheen and sharp faces. Mined 2008 and in great condition. 5.5 x 9 x 9 cm.
NSMW9304 CALCITE ON QUARTZ WITH SPHALERITE PRICE: $225. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Pretty specimen of prismatic quartz with a light druse of white calcite. Complete on all sides and in great condition. Mined in 2008. 6 x 8 x 11 cm.
NSMW9301 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $125. CENTRAL PETROVITZA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small/Medium Cabinet) Combination of bright silvery metallic galena and prismatic quartz grouped over sphalerite matrix. Attractive and in great condition. Mined 2009. 4.5 x 7.5 x 9.5 cm.
NSMW9300 CHALCOPYRITE AND PYRITE ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $SOLD SOUTH-END, MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small/Medium Cabinet) This specimen certainly has one of the largest chalcopyrites I have ever seen from the district or at least it used to be as it is about half etched away and partially replaced by brassy pyrite. The former crystal measures 4.5 x 4.5 cm across as can be seen in the lower photo and right side of top photo. From workings mined c. 1985. Small ding off the right side of big crystal which can be seen right next to the tensional crack. 5 x 7 x 9 cm.
NSMW9299 GALENA ON QUARTZ PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small/Medium Cabinet) Very bright silvery metallic galena on white quartz. Great contrast and visual appeal. Nice to see isolated crystals on matrix. Mined 2009. Very minor ding on the largest crystal. 3 x 4.5 x 10.5 cm.
NSMW9296 GALENA WITH CALCITE PRICE: $250. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small/Medium Cabinet) Elongated mound of galena with bright silvery metallic sheen and a light preferential druse of calcite. The galena is highly complex with twinning on the Spinel Law and excellent secondary forms. Crystallized to all edges and contacted on base. Mined 2008. 3.5 x 4.5 x 9.5 cm.
NSMW9294 GALENA PRICE: $125. SOUTH-END, MOGILA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Floater galena crystal with excellent hoppered faces and multiple stages of growth that make a very three dimensional specimen. Classic Mogila piece from workings mined c. 1975. In great condition. No point of attachment. 3 x 3 x 3.5 cm.
NSMW9293 GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH PYRITE PRICE: $45. CENTRAL PETROVITZA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Bright, silvery metallic galena on drusy pyrite with associated sphalerite and quartz. The pyrite appears to have replaced chalcopyrite as there are indications of previous crystals and the pyrite is randomly oriented. Nice miniature combination from mining in 2009. In great condition. 2.5 x 4 x 5 cm.
NSMW9289 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $350. LEVEL 450/500, BLOCK 22, KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Exceptionally high quality and aesthetic combination from mining in 2007. This section of the ore body produced what are arguably the best Spinel Law twins ever found in the country and rival the best in the world. Great miniature in great condition. 4 x 4 x 4 cm.
NSMW9288 GALENA PRICE: $45. SOUTH PETROVITZA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Mounded group of cubic galena well modified by the octahedron and with the prominent crystal at top twinned on the Spinel Law. In great condition and mined 2001. 3 x 3.5 x 3.5 cm.
NSMW9287 GALENA WITH QUARTZ AND CALCITE PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Combination of galena with quartz and calcite from mining in 2008. The numerous dimples on the galena indicate fluid inclusions and as far as these go it is about as good as they get. No point of attachment and in great condition. 2.5 x 4 x 4 cm.
NSMW9284 GALENA PRICE: $SOLD KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Spinel Law twinned galena with no attached matrix. Fantastic secondary overgrowth on the octahedron. In great condition. Mined from the great stopes that produced the best galena twins ever seen from the mine. C. 2006. Just barely attached at base. 2.5 x 4.5 x 5.5 cm.
NSMW9283 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $220. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Exceptionally bright, silvery metallic galena on bed of transparent quartz. Twinned on the Spinel Law so the galena looks bladed. Great contrast and visual appeal. In great condition. Mined 2006. 3 x 3 x 5.4 cm.
NSMW9282 CALCITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $225. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Two disks of calcite perched on top of prismatic quartz crystals. The calcites appear to be impaled or speared by the quartz since they are pierced right through the faces. Unique in my experience and an excellent specimen from new mining in 2008. In great condition. 4 x 5 x 5 cm.
NSMW9226 QUARTZ AND GALENA PRICE: $120. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) 'Melted' galena crystals with associated transparent prismatic quartz. The galena has been etched and re-grown and shows twinning on the Spinel Law. Mined c. 2006. In great condition. 2.7 x 5 x 6 cm.
NSMW9224 SPHALERITE var. Cleophane AND QUARTZ PRICE: $125. OSIKIVO MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (SmallCabinet) Olive green lustrous sphalerite on drusy quartz with associated pyrite. The sphalerite is semi-transparent and shows the typical green color for this variety found in the ore body. Associated galena. From workings mined c. early 1980s. In great condition. 2.7 x 5.5 x 8 cm.
NSMW9222 GALENA PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Group of silvery metallic galena crystals exhibiting primarily cubic crystals and some others twinned on the Spinel Law. There are pronounced mosaic textures on the surfaces that give some of the crystals a melted appearance. Contact with pocket was at the base so there is cleavage at that point. Mined in 2007. 3 x 5 x 7 cm.
NSMW9221 SPHALERITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $25. SOUTH-END, MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Single sharp sphalerite crystal, 1.5 cm across, on light greenish/gray quartz. A textbook perfect crystal in top condition. From workings mined c. 1980. 4.5 x 5 x 6 cm.
NSMW9200 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $850. KONSKI DOL MINE (ANGEL IANAKIEV), MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Exceptionally bright and fine silvery metallic galena on sphalerite matrix. Fantastic modifications on the primary crystals and really great luster for this mine. In top condition and mined in 1990. 5 x 7 x 11 cm.
NSMW9199 SPHALERITE PRICE: $120. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Elongated group of high luster jet black sphalerite crystals with associated steely gray galena. Complete on all sides. One crystal is cleaved off which can be seen at lower center of top photo. I overlooked this when I acquired it. 3 x 5 x 11 cm.
NSMW9195 GALENA ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $260. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Brilliant silvery metallic galena group on sphalerite. The surface texture of the galena resembles contour lines on a topographic map. Just great morphology. Mined in July 2009. One tiny ding on the edge of the main crystal but overall in great condition. 3.5 x 5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW9193 QUARTZ WITH HEMATITE PRICE: $SOLD KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) A group of sharp transparent quartz with associated hematite that imparts a nice reddish tinge. One pocket find in September/October 2008 and very rare from the entire district. In great condition. 3.5 x 4.5 x 5 cm.
NSMW9192 GALENA ON CHALCOPYRITE AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $225. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Rectangular crystals of galena attractively grouped over chalcopyrite and sphalerite matrix. What is really unusual about this specimen is the morphology of the galena both in terms of the rectangular habit and the fact that it came from the Kruchev dol Mine which normally does not have this type. Quite nice in all regards and in great condition. Mined 2007 from a singular pocket. 4.5 x 4.5 x 8 cm.
NSMW9191 CHALCOPYRITE AND GALENA WITH SPHALERITE PRICE: $250. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Great combination of very bright and brassy chalcopyrite, very bright silvery metallic galena and drusy sphalerite. The specimen has very nice three dimensional character and displays from a variety of angles equally well. Very choice combination from new mining in mid-2009. In great condition. 4.5 x 5 x 7 cm.
NSMW9190 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $225. SOUTH-END, MOGILA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Combination of brassy chalcopyrite, black lustrous sphalerite, steel gray galena and light greenish/gray quartz. Even though there are four species present on this piece it really is a chalcopyrite specimen. The crystals are just great in form and size with individuals to 2.6 cm across and excellent form. In great condition. Very fine small cabinet from mining c. early 1980s. 4.5 x 5 x 8 cm.
NSMW9075 QUARTZ ON GALENA PRICE: $380. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Group of Spinel Law galena twins with bright silvery metallic sheen and highly modified morphology. A spray of quartz is on one side and the specimen is crystallized on all sides. This is about as good as one can find for a miniature from this pocket. A great specimen in top condition from mining in 2008. 4 x 4 x 5.2 cm.
NSMW9071 GALENA PRICE: $250. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Highly modified complex crystals of galena on matrix. The crystals are twinned on the Spinel Law and show hoppered octahedrons as well as sharp flat faced cube and octahedron faces. Exceptionally aesthetic and well balanced specimen in great condition from mining in 2008.
CENTRAL PETROVITZA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Very bright, silvery metallic galena crystals with associated light yellow calcite both on a greenish quartz-rich matrix. I only acquired a precious few specimens from this pocket which was mined in mid-2009. It was highly distinctive with this type of calcite. Great little miniature in top condition. 3 x 3.5 x 5 cm.
NSMW9065 GALENA ON QUARTZ PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Numerous Spinel Law twinned galenas perched over an elongated group of quartz. Complete on all sides and in top condition. The patina has a slightly iridescent blue sheen that resembles gun metal. Classic specimen from the mining in 2005. 2.7 x 3 x 5.5 cm.
NSMW9038 AMETHYST PRICE: $350. DRUJBA MINE, LAKI DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) A group of semi-transparent purple and locally light green quartz. Laki is the finest underground locality for amethyst in the sulfide mines of southern Bulgaria. This is a nice and attractive group with good color and contrast between the purple and green hues and on examination the prismatic crystals have sharp internal zoning. Mined in 2001 from a stope that is long gone and played out. One tiny ding on a crystal which can be seen at upper left of top photo. 6 x 7 x 8 cm.
NSMW9012 PYRITE PRICE: $20. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Group of intergrown pyrites with only a tiny point of attachment. Exceptionally bright and well striated. The Mogila Mine is one of two portals that accessed the famous Deveti Septemvri Complex (9th of September Mine). The other is the Osikovo Mine. Both mines were closed years ago but during the more than 40 years that they operated some of the finest specimens ever found in Madan came from here. Not perfect as there are a couple of tiny nicks but still a very attractive and fine miniature. 2 x 3 x 3.8 cm.
NSMW9010 QUARTZ PRICE: $45. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) A group of transparent, gemmy quartz with associated sphalerite in the matrix. Simply a bright and beautiful specimen from new mining in 2008-2009. 3.5 x 4.5 x 6 cm.
NSMW9004 SPHALERITE WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $35. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Group of high luster sphalerite with associated quartz. Great form and condition and perfect little miniature from new mining in 2007. 2 x 3 x 3.5 cm.
NSMW9003 QUARTZ WITH EPIDOTE INCLUSIONS PRICE: $45. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Bright and transparent quartz with a 'core' of epidote which gives the center a greenish tinge. There was only one pocket of these specimens found last year and they have note been seen since. Probably found as a loose 'floater' in the pocket as there is no real point of attachment but rather a couple of broken crystals at the base. The remainder of the display specimen is in great condition. 3.5 x 3.5 x 6.2 cm.
NSMW8940 GALENA AND SPHALERITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $250. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Group of bright silvery metallic galena in combination with lustrous black sphalerite on matrix of greenish drusy quartz. The quartz has an overall platy shell-like form and the greenish color is classic from this ore body. Two phases of sphalerite with the early generation as fine, drusy aggregates underneath the quartz and the second phase as well formed lustrous black crystals inter-grown with galena. Mined 1970. In excellent condition. Specimen has never been cleaned in acid as there are still some carbonates: tan colored druse on galena in lower photo. 7.5 x 8 x 9 cm.
NSMW8939 GALENA WITH CHALCOPYRITE AND PYRITE PRICE: $350. KONSKI DOL MINE (ANGEL IANAKIEV MINE), MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Group of cubic galena modified by octahedrons with associated chalcopyrite and pyrite. The chalcopyrite has a matte luster which is classic for this mine and the abundant pyrite in the matrix with greenish chlorite all point to this ore body as the source. Mined 1990 and in great condition. 4.5 x 9 x 10 cm.
NSMW8937 DOLOMITE AFTER MANGANOAN CALCITE ON SPHALERITE AND PYRITE PRICE: $125. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Bladed manganoan calcite replaced by tan dolomite with asscoaited quartz, brassy pyrite and sphalerite. The Mogila Mine is one of two portals that accessed the famous Deveti Septemvri Complex (9th of September Mine). The other is the Osikovo Mine. Both mines were closed years ago but during the more than 40 years that they operated some of the finest specimens ever found in Madan came from here. Unique in my experience and a fine small cabinet specimen from mining in 1972. 5 x 6.5 x 7 cm.
NSMW8936 SPHALERITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $125. OSIKOVO MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet)
NSMW8935 GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH CHALCOPYRITE AND PYRITE PRICE: $250. KONSKI DOL MINE (ANGEL IANAKIEV MINE), MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature/Small Cabinet) Mound of chalcopyrite and galena with bright and brassy metallic pyrite and black sphalerite. Specimens from the Konski dol Mine are seen very infrequently on the market anymore as the mine closed years ago, but, during it's operation the mine was the source of some of the finest specimens of the day. Mined 1991 and in great condition. Great combination and a small cabinet 4.5 x 5 x 6 cm.
ON APPROVAL NSMW8927 GALENA WITH SPHALERITE PRICE: $220. KONSKI DOL MINE (ANGEL IANAKIEV MINE), MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) This is a sharp and bright silver metallic galena group with associated quartz and sphalerite. The galena crystals are well hoppered and have fine secondary forms on the cube. Specimens from the Konski dol Mine are infrequently seen on the market anymore as the mine closed years ago but during it's operation the mine was the source of some of the finest specimens of the day. Mined 1990 and in great condition. 2.5 x 6 x 7.8 cm.
NSMW8926 GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $250. KONSKI DOL MINE (ANGEL IANAKIEV MINE), MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) This is a combination of galena and sphalerite with a light druse of quartz on one side. The specimen has a mounded form and is crystallized on all sides. Specimens from the Konski dol Mine are hard to find on the market anymore as the mine closed years ago but during it's operation the mine was the source of some of the finest specimens of the day. Mined 1991 and in great condition. 4 x 5.5 x 6 cm.
NSMW8924 SPHALERITE AND GALENA PRICE: $220. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Elongated mound of galena and sphalerite with associated calcite druse. The Mogila Mine is one of two portals that accessed the famous Deveti Septemvri Complex (9th of September Mine). The other is the Osikovo Mine. Both mines were closed years ago but during the more than 40 years that they operated some of the finest specimens ever found in Madan came from here. This is a small cabinet specimen in great condition mined 1977. 4 x 5 x 8 cm.
ON APPROVAL NSMW8922 QUARTZ WITH GALENA AND CHALCOPYRITE PRICE: $250. OSIKOVO MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Two, transparent quartz crystals protruding from a base of galena with associated chalcopyrite. Classic and distinctive quartz from this location. The Osikovo Mine is one of two portals that accessed the famous Deveti Septemvri Complex (9th of September Mine). The other is the Mogila Mine. Both mines were closed years ago but during the more than 40 years that they operated some of the finest specimens ever found in Madan came from here. Mined 1975 and in great condition. 3.5 x 6.5 x 7.5 cm.
NSMW8918 PYRITE AND QUARTZ WITH SPHALERITE PRICE: $125. GOVEDARNIKA MINE (DRUJBA MINE), LAKI DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature/Small Cabinet) Combination of brassy cubic pyrite, lustrous black sphalerite, transparent quartz and drusy dolomite. Fine specimen from mining in 1970. In great condition. 3.5 x 6 x 7 cm.
NSMW8914 CALCITE ON SPHALERITE PRICE: $350. GOVEDARNIKA MINE (DRUJBA MINE), LAKI DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium/Large Cabinet) High luster, ivory white, calcite rhombs stacked up over a sphalerite matrix. Clean, aesthetic and attractive medium /large cabinet specimen from mining in 1971. In great condition. 5.5 x 11 x 13 cm.
NSMW8913 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $650. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium/Large Cabinet) Medium/large cabinet of spinel law twinned galena and lustrous black sphalerite. The Mogila Mine along with the Osikovo Mine were the two major portals into the most famous and richest ore body in the district. This specimen was mined in 1976 under communist times when specimen sales were forbidden. It survived in a private collection. In great condition. 4.5 x 11 x 16.5 cm. The back is covered with fine drusy quartz as the specimen was found loose in the pocket as a floater.
NSMW8909 SPHALERITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $240. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Group of silky lustered sphalerite on white quartz. I have never seen a luster on sphalerites quite like this. It is actually difficult to identify from galena except for some obvious morphology when one can orient the crystals correctly. Aesthetic and in great condition. Mined in 1980. 4.5 x 7 x 10 cm.
NSMW8881 SPHALERITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $25. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Olive green semi-transparent sphalerite on white quartz. Classic from this location. Mined c. early 1990s. 2 x 2.2 x 3 cm.
NSMW8880 QUARTZ WITH HEMATITE PRICE: $65. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Transparent quartz with preferential druse of hematite. Unique pocket from mining in 2008. Nice miniature. 3 x 3.5 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW8870 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $120. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Combination with cube/octahedral galena crystals perched on black sphalerite. Nice small cabinet specimen from this most famous mine in the district. Mined c. 1980s. In great condition. 3 x 4.5 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW8869 GALENA WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $120. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature/Small Cabinet) Elongated, rectangular galena crystal with octahedral modifications and secondary faces on the cube. The greenish matrix is typical of this mine. New mining in early 2008. In great condition. 3.5 x 3.5 x 7 cm.
NSMW8831 GALENA ON PYRITE PRICE: $68. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Hoppered and modified silvery metallic galena on matrix of sugary pyrite. Excellent miniature mined in 2009. In great condition. 2.5 x 3.5 x 4 cm.
NSMW8828 GALENA WITH QUARTZ AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $225. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Fine miniature from the great stopes that produced some of the finest galenas ever found in Madan. The galena is twinned on the spinel law and has fine parallel growth on the octahedron. In great condition. Mined early 2009. 3.5 x 4.5 x 5 cm.
NSMW8827 GALENA WITH SPHALERITE PRICE: $150. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature/Small Cabinet) Etched galena with black sphalerites and small transparent quartzes. The galena is etched preferentially as those it was sandblasted away from the sphalerites: the result is that the sphalerite stand up off the matrix. Choice specimen from new mining in April 2009. In great condition. 3 x 7 x 7 cm.
NSMW8825 GALENA PRICE: $350. SOUTH PETROVITZA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Silvery metallic very high quality galena on quartz that is in turn on a greenish siliceous matrix. These came out of one unique pocket in the mine and represent some of the best ever found in the mine and in fact for the district. Mined in March/April 2009. Display area is in great condition. 5 x 6.5 x 9 cm.
NSMW8818 PYRITE ON SPHALERITE AND QUARTZ PRICE: $240. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Mounded group of pyrite on matrix of sphalerite and drusy quartz. Great iridescent sheen on the pyrites and a very well balanced specimen with the best mounded group standing up off matrix. Mined 1973. Contacted crystal along one edge (right side of photo) but otherwise in great condition. 4 x 6 x 6 cm.
NSMW8816 QUARTZ WITH CALCITE AND PYRITE PRICE: $380. PETROVITZA MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium/Large Cabinet) Group of semi-transparent quartz with a light preferential druse of calcite and a pyrite crystal tucked right near the middle of the piece. The quartzes narrow slightly towards the terminations and the specimen has good from and aesthetics. Currently, there is nothing like this coming out of the Petrovitsa Mine....it is very rare on the market. One small ding on a crystal if you look hard enough but overall in great condition. Mined 1980. 7 x 12 x 16 cm.
NSMW8759 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $250. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Spinel Law galena twin 4.5 cm in combination with quartz. Complete on all sides and in great condition. The stope that produced these great twins is long gone and specimens are only available from stashes. 4.5 x 5.5 x 6 cm.
NSMW8758 QUARTZ Japan Law Twins PRICE: $125. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Numerous Japan Law twin quartz crystals in combination with prismatic quartz and with associated sphalerite. Fine, in great condition and a rarity from the mine. Mined c. early 1990s. 3 x 5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW8756 MANGANOAN CALCITE PRICE: $SOLD ANDROVO MINE, ERMA REKA, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) A group of pastel pink manganoan calcites with no attached matrix. Small cabinet specimens of this variety are nearly impossible to find as the pieces are usually quite large and with big crystals as well. Mined c. 2006 and in great condition. 3 x 6.5 x 6.5 cm.
NSMW8754 QUARTZ WITH CHLORITE INCLUSIONS PRICE: $125. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Single, prismatic quartz crystal with abundant green chlorite inclusions near the termination and with associated galena. Excellent small cabinet specimen from mining in 2003. In great condition and a rarity from the district. 2.5 x 3 x 6 cm.
NSMW8748 GALENA AND SPHALERITE WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $850. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Beautiful combination of bright silvery metallic galenas with an almost liquid sheen with high luster sphalerite and transparent quartz. Excellent mounded shape and in top condition. Mined 2007. 7.5 x 9.5 x 10.5 cm.
NSMW8746 PYRITE ON QUARTZ AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $65. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA Brassy pyrites on sphalerite and quartz matrix. Specimen is from workings that were first mined in the 1960s-1970s. Small/medium cabinet from this great locality in Madan. Tiny nick on one crystal but overall in great condition. 6 x 6 x 8.5 cm.
NSMW8732 DOLOMITE AFTER CALCITE ON GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $350. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Dolomite pseudomorphs after calcite scattered over cube/octahedral galena and black sphalerite. Some of the pseudomorphs are hollowed out and can be seen as casts/epimoprhs. In great condition. 6.5 x 8 x 12cm.
NSMW8731 GALENA PRICE: $2500. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Bright, silvery metallic, highly complex galena crystals with multiple spinel law twins. Mined from the great stopes that produced the finest galenas in decades. The section of the ore body that produced these is now mined out and gone. New material from the mine will not be the same and specimens such as this will only come from stashes and 'collections'. Associated quartz and sphalerite. Mined 2008. In great condition and a very excellent piece. 5.5 x 8 x 10 cm.
NSMW8724 CALCITE ON QUARTZ AND GALENA PRICE: $220. MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Combination of disk-like calcite, shiny metallic galena, black sphalerite and quartz. The calcite is 'impaled' on the quartz terminations and stands up well of the matrix. Sharp and clean and a fine small cabinet. Great condition. 2.5 x 4.5 x 6 cm.
NSMW8721 GALENA PRICE: $125. GJUDURSKA MINE, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Well hoppered galena crystal complete on all sides and with just a little matrix on base. Sharp and clean and a fine specimen from mining in 2008. In great condition. 3.5 x 4.5 x 5 cm.
NSMW8709 GALENA PRICE: $450. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Simply a bright group of fine quality twinned galena. Twins to 5 cm and just a hint of matrix on the base. Mined 2008. In great condition. 4 x 6 x 10 cm.
NSMW8703 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $1250. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium/Large Cabinet) Exceptionally bright silvery metallic galena in combination with black sphalerite and quartz. The Kruchev dol Mine is producing the best galenas the district has seen in years from a series of stopes that encounter ever changing varieties and combinations of sulfides. This piece is from the very recent mining in December 2008. Crystallized on all sides and displays from any angle. In great condition. 6.5 x 8.5 x 20 cm.
NSMW8701 GALENA AND QUARTZ PRICE: $450. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Spinel twinned galena to 5 cm with exceptionally complex secondary forms on the octahedron. Preferential combination with quartz and a very sharp and clean specimen from mining in 2008. Medium cabinet 6 x 7.5 x 11 cm.
NSMW8687 WAVELLITE PRICE: $SOLD CHALA MINE, EASTERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Drusy wavellite on quartz. Miniature in great condition. RARE. Collected 2005. 2 x 4 x 5 cm.
NSMW8682 WITHERITE PRICE: $65. KREMICOVTZI MINE, 15 KM Northeast of SOFIA, BULGARIA (Miniature) Witherite with associated hematite. Miniature from the best zone for witherite ever found in this important open pit iron mine. RARE. Mined in 1999-2001. 1 x 2.5 x 4 cm.
NSMW8680 SPHALERITE PRICE: $120. ANDROVO MINE, ERMA REKA, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Mounded plate of lustrous deep chocolate brown sphalerite. The sphalerites have a slight reddish brown tinge and are semi-transparent Excellent miniature in great condition. Mined 1998. 2.5 x 4 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW8678 RHODOCHROSITE WITH QUARTZ PRICE: $125. ENJOVCHE MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Pastel pink rhodochrosite with quartz. Crystallized on all sides. Mined 1997. In excellent condition. Miniature 3 x 3 x 4.5 cm.
NSMW8677 PYRITE ON QUARTZ PRICE: $SOLD KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Pyrite ball 2.5 x 3 cm on quartz. Unique specimen in my experience. Mined 1983. Miniature 2.5 x 3.5 x 5.5 cm.
NSMW8542 SPHALERITE PRICE: $1250. STRATIEV KAMUK MINE, ERMA REKA, ZLATOGRAD DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Large Cabinet) Large, mounded plate of lustrous deep chocolate brown sphalerite with associated quartz druse. The sphalerites are huge with individual crystals to 10 cm across. Sections of the crystals are transparent and flawless enough to cut gemstones. By far, the largest and most impressive sphalerites came from this mine. They are only available from old collections at this point. In great condition. Museum sized and mined c. 1960s. 5 x 17 x 21 cm.
NSMW8529 GALENA ON PYRITE AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $240. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Medium Cabinet) Highly modified galena on matrix of pyrite and sphalerite and chalcopyrite. I acquired this piece primarily because the morphology is so unusual and the fact it displays exceptionally well against the matrix sulfides. Mined in 2008. Medium cabinet 5.5 x 7.5 x 10 cm.
NSMW8528 QUARTZ PRICE: $45. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Modified quartz crystal with associated micro chalcopyrites. The crystals are multi-terminated and appear almost sceptered from etching and re-growth. From a unique find in 2008. In top condition. 2 x 3 x 7.5 cm.
NSMW8527 PYRITE PRICE: $65. ON APPROVAL MOGILA MINE, DEVETI SEPTEMVRI COMPLEX, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Miniature) Group of pyrite crystals with associated sphalerite and no point of attachment. Comprised of typical forms but with one notable exception which is a twinned crystal (lower photo) that has an arrowhead appearance. Unique in my experience. Mined c. 1980s. In great condition. 3 x 3.5 x 5 cm.
NSMW8523 GALENA AND SPHALERITE PRICE: $220. KRUCHEV DOL MINE, MADAN DISTRICT, SOUTHERN RHODOPE MOUNTAINS, BULGARIA (Small Cabinet) Silvery metallic, spinel law twins of galena on lustrous mound of black sphalerites. The galenas have fine flat faces so the forms are easily identifiable and contrast well with the matrix. Mined 2008. In great condition. 4 x 5 x 7 cm.
Please See Bulgaria 1 and 2 for more Bulgarian Minerals
March 2010 In November of 2009 an amazing pocket of galena was found in the Gjudurska Mine. The luster is the finest I have ever seen with mirror sheen on silvery metallic cube/octahedron crystals. The pocket also had stalactitic galena forms with associated bladed calcite. A unique find in Madan. Also, there are a number of other fine pyrites coming to market and some excellent rounded galenas with associated sphalerite. Clearly, the action now is in the Gjudurska Mine. A unique pocket of hematite-included calcite with associated pyrite was found in the Kruchev dol and the Borieva Complex is producing some sharp, tetrahedral shaped black sphalerite. Overall, Madan is finding only sporadic pockets. Laki with two active mining operations, the Djurkovo and Drujba, is still slow in terms of specimens.
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