Fluorite, Roland Mine (Gluckauf Mine), Stulln, Bavaria, Germany

Fluorite is a perennial favourite amongst mineral collectors for its variety of colours, forms and localities. Being in North America we are often spoiled with access to terrific Illinois and Mexican fluorites, among others. Of course China has become a major supplier of quality fluorite too, but  European classics are something special all on their own. Here I am offering a cabinet-sized yellow fluorite cluster. At first glance I thought this was also from Illinois but is actually from the Roland Mine in Germany. According to Mindat.org, the mine operated sporadically under several names from 1928 until finally closing in 1961. In addition to fine fluorites, the mine is known for uranium-bearing species such as torbenite. This specimen is completely covered in fluorite cubes except on the basal contact. Exposed to long wave (365nm) ultraviolet light, the specimen fluoresces a beautiful shade of purple. Overall, a large, attractive fluorite from a long-closed European locality. Ex Steve Potvin collection. From: Roland Mine (formerly Gluckauf or Heinrich Mine), Stulln, Schwandorf district, Bavaria, German. Dimensions: 9 cm x 10 cm x 15 cm