An absolute classic for lovers of historical ores: This 10 cm specimen is an excellent example of Strickblende from the legendary, long-closed Schmalgraf mine near Kelmis in Belgium. This magnificent piece is distinguished by its one-sided polish, which masterfully reveals the complex internal structure of this mineral aggregate.
Also known as "knitted blende", it owes its name to a fascinating geological quirk of nature: Under high pressure, a skeletal, fine latticework of galena initially grew. In a second step, hydrothermal solutions of schalenblende (botryoidal sphalerite and wurtzite) enveloped and filled this framework in the finest, rhythmic layers. The cross-section and polishing now reveal this delicate, eponymous knitted pattern in spectacular and striking contrast.
Since the historic Schmalgraf mine was closed and flooded as early as 1932, such pieces invariably come from old collections. A historically valuable testament to Central European mining and a visual highlight for any discerning mineral collection!
