Sphalerite - Flamborough (Flamboro) Quarry, West Flamborough Township, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

ZnS

Sphalerite from the Flamborough Quarry in Ontario, Canada, is a remarkable example of this zinc sulfide mineral, known for its vibrant colors and brilliant luster. Specimens from this locality often display a range of hues, from deep brown and reddish-orange to yellow and even rare green shades, depending on the presence of trace elements such as iron. Flamborough Quarry sphalerite is notable for its well-formed crystals, typically appearing in tetrahedral or complex intergrown shapes, with a brilliant resinous to adamantine luster that enhances its visual appeal. These specimens are frequently found in association with other minerals like calcite, galena, and dolomite, creating striking mineralogical displays.

The Flamborough Quarry, situated within the Silurian dolostone rocks of Ontario, provides an ideal setting for the crystallization of sphalerite in hydrothermal veins and cavities. The mineral forms as a result of metal-rich hydrothermal fluids interacting with carbonate host rocks, creating deposits of exceptional quality and clarity. Sphalerite from this locality is highly sought after by collectors for its aesthetic qualities and the diversity of its crystal forms. Additionally, the quarry’s sphalerite offers valuable insights into the region’s geological history and the hydrothermal processes responsible for the area's mineral richness.

Approx. specimen size: 45mm x 25mm x 23mm