Manganite, Caland Pit, Atikokan, Ontario, Canada

Although mining ceased in 1979-80, the manganese mines near Atikokan were a key strategic deposit for the Allies in WWII. Ore from Atikokan was added to the larger iron ore deposits located in the northern USA for steel production for the war effort. The mines also are well-known for their excellent manganite crystals. Perhaps not as robust and sexy as those from Germany, they are now Canadian classics. Rocky Mountain Minerals & Fossils recently acquired a selection of these from a former mine engineer that had stashed them in his garage since the mine's closure. These pieces have never before been offered for sale. This piece has botryoidal mounds covered with small manganite crystals. Quite aesthetic for the species. From: Caland Pit, Schwenger Township, Atikokan, Ontario. Dimensions: 4 cm x 4 cm x 8 cm