Clear Quartz, Galena and Sphalerite – Madan, Bulgaria | Ref. 132

This substantial specimen of clear quartz associated with galena and sphalerite comes from the Madan mining district in Bulgaria. Dated 1993, it displays a particularly dense development of quartz crystals across the matrix.

The transparent to translucent quartz crystals are predominantly elongated, prismatic and well terminated. They form several intergrown sprays, including two raised groups that give the specimen considerable depth and presence. The lustrous crystal faces and numerous terminations reflect the light from different angles and highlight the quality of the crystallisation.

Galena and sphalerite occur more discreetly between the quartz crystals as dark areas with a metallic lustre. Their presence creates a strong contrast with the clear quartz and illustrates a characteristic mineral association from the lead-zinc deposits of Madan in the Bulgarian Rhodope Mountains.

Measuring 135 mm in length and weighing 760 g, this is a substantial piece with a complex crystal structure and a particularly attractive overall presentation.

Locality: Madan mining district, Bulgaria.

Year: 1993.

Dimensions: 135 × 80 × 75 mm.

Weight: 760 g.