Pure Enchantment... Denton Mine Fluorite , Hardin County, Illinois

Pure Enchantment… Denton Mine Fluorite , Hardin County, Illinois The Denton Mine in Hardin County, Illinois, is a legendary, now-closed (1994) source of world-class, intensely colored Fluorite specimens. Known for large, cubic crystals with deep blue, purple, and yellow zoning, these, often paired with calcite, are highly prized for their aesthetic “blurple” hues. Key Facts About Denton Mine Fluorite: Location: Harris Creek Mining Sub-District, Southern Illinois, USA. Characteristics: Specimens are famous for their rich, deep blue to purple colors, sometimes with yellow cores or phantom zoning. They often exhibit a satiny to glassy luster on cubic faces. Associated Minerals: Often found in association with lustrous yellow calcite, shiny sphalerite, and sometimes, silver-colored chalcopyrite inclusions. Rarity: As the mine closed in 1994, specimens are increasingly rare and considered a classic collector’s item. Appearance: They are often large, cabinet-sized, and highly fluorescent under UV light. The Denton Mine operated under the Ozark-Mahoning Company from 1981 to 1994. Due to the high quality of the crystals, they are often prized for both display and {Link: lapidary purposes}.