{"product_id":"blue-grey-fluorite-with-golden-iron-oxide-wheal-mary-ann-menheniot-cornwall","title":"Blue-Grey Fluorite with Golden Iron Oxide | Wheal Mary Ann, Menheniot, Cornwall","description":"\u003cp\u003eA beautiful natural \u003cstrong\u003eblue-grey fluorite specimen from Wheal Mary Ann, Menheniot, Cornwall\u003c\/strong\u003e, displaying contrasting areas of smoky blue crystalline fluorite, translucent cream-coloured mineral growth and striking golden-orange iron oxide staining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWeighing \u003cstrong\u003e215g\u003c\/strong\u003e, this distinctive Cornish mineral specimen features angular crystal faces, naturally fractured surfaces and richly contrasting mineral colours that reflect its complex geological formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecimen Description\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis attractive fluorite specimen displays a particularly interesting combination of \u003cstrong\u003edeep blue-grey, smoky blue, translucent white and pale honey-coloured crystalline sections\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOne of its most distinctive features is the contrast between the darker blue-grey fluorite and the lighter, cream-coloured crystalline material surrounding it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAcross the principal display face, angular fluorite surfaces form a series of overlapping crystalline sections, with varying degrees of translucency and naturally occurring internal features.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe darker fluorite areas possess a smoky, slate-blue appearance, while the surrounding mineral growth ranges from translucent ivory to soft golden cream.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eScattered throughout the specimen are vivid deposits of golden-orange and rusty-brown mineral staining, consistent with natural iron oxide or iron oxyhydroxide alteration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese warm mineral deposits follow crystal boundaries, natural fractures and irregular surface features, creating a striking contrast against the cooler blue-grey fluorite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe reverse reveals a different arrangement of crystalline growth, including broader translucent surfaces, pale cream mineralisation and exposed angular crystal faces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSeveral sections display a glass-like lustre, while others possess a more textured, naturally weathered appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen's irregular formation gives it an attractive sculptural quality, with different colours and crystalline structures becoming visible as it is viewed from multiple angles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMeasuring \u003cstrong\u003e62.6mm × 47.3mm and weighing 215g\u003c\/strong\u003e, this is a lovely example of naturally contrasting Cornish fluorite, particularly appealing to collectors of British minerals and historic mining specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Fluorite\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFluorite (CaF₂)\u003c\/strong\u003e is a naturally occurring calcium fluoride mineral belonging to the halide mineral group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt crystallises in the cubic, or isometric, crystal system and has a Mohs hardness of 4.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFluorite is admired for its extraordinary variety of colours, including purple, blue, green, yellow, pink, grey and colourless varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIts colouration can be influenced by trace impurities, structural defects and the geological conditions present during crystal formation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBlue and blue-grey fluorite specimens are particularly attractive for their cool colouring and varying degrees of transparency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFluorite commonly forms within hydrothermal mineral veins, where heated, mineral-rich fluids circulate through fractures and cavities in surrounding rocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs these fluids cool or undergo changes in temperature, pressure and chemistry, dissolved minerals can crystallise within the available spaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFluorite frequently occurs alongside quartz, calcite, baryte, galena and other hydrothermal minerals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIts distinctive cubic crystal habit is one of its most recognisable features, although fluorite also possesses perfect octahedral cleavage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese cleavage planes can create angular surfaces and complex internal structures when crystals naturally fracture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe golden-orange staining visible across this specimen is consistent with iron oxide or iron oxyhydroxide mineralisation, which may develop through the oxidation and alteration of iron-bearing minerals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSuch staining can highlight crystal boundaries and geological fractures, creating distinctive natural colour contrasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWheal Mary Ann \u0026amp; Cornish Mining Heritage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWheal Mary Ann\u003c\/strong\u003e is a historic mineral locality situated near Menheniot in south-east Cornwall, England.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe surrounding Menheniot district forms part of Cornwall's extensive mining landscape and is particularly associated with historic lead and silver mining.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough Cornwall is internationally recognised for its tin and copper deposits, the south-eastern region also contains important lead-bearing mineral veins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the nineteenth century, mining operations around Menheniot extracted lead ores, particularly galena, which could contain economically valuable silver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThese deposits developed through hydrothermal geological processes, as heated mineral-rich fluids circulated through fractures within the surrounding rocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOver time, these fluids deposited a varied assemblage of minerals, including quartz, fluorite, galena and associated species.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eBritish Geological Survey's geological memoir covering Plymouth and South-East Cornwall\u003c\/strong\u003e documents fluorite as an important gangue mineral at Wheal Mary Ann.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGangue minerals occur alongside economically valuable ores but are not necessarily the principal materials being extracted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHistorical geological observations indicate that multiple episodes of fluorite mineralisation occurred at Wheal Mary Ann.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis suggests that the mineral veins experienced changing geological conditions and successive periods of mineral deposition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSuch processes can produce complex crystalline associations, overlapping mineral growth and variations in crystal development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe combination of blue-grey fluorite, pale translucent mineral growth and contrasting iron-stained surfaces makes this specimen particularly interesting from a geological perspective.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSpecimens attributed to historic Cornish mining localities are especially appealing to collectors interested in British mineralogy, geological history and Cornwall's mining heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIntention \u0026amp; Associated Chakras\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWithin traditional crystal healing practices, blue fluorite is associated with mental clarity, calm communication, emotional balance and intuitive understanding.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIts blue colouring is traditionally connected with the \u003cstrong\u003eThroat Chakra\u003c\/strong\u003e, symbolising communication, truth and self-expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFluorite more generally is associated with concentration, clear thinking and emotional balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMental Clarity:\u003c\/strong\u003e Traditionally associated with clear thinking, concentration and understanding.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommunication:\u003c\/strong\u003e Symbolically connected with honest expression and thoughtful conversation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCalm:\u003c\/strong\u003e Associated with peaceful reflection and emotional balance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIntuition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Traditionally linked with insight and personal awareness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFocus:\u003c\/strong\u003e Associated with organisation, learning and concentration.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePersonal Growth:\u003c\/strong\u003e Symbolically connected with understanding and positive change.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAssociated Chakra:\u003c\/strong\u003e Throat Chakra.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrimary Intention:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mental clarity, communication and calm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThese associations reflect traditional spiritual beliefs and are not scientifically established effects of fluorite.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eNatural Formation \u0026amp; Symbolism\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen retains its natural raw formation, displaying an irregular crystalline structure with numerous overlapping fluorite surfaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe deep blue-grey crystalline areas contrast beautifully with the pale cream and translucent white mineral growth, while golden-orange iron staining adds further depth and character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAngular crystal faces, natural cleavage surfaces and small mineral-filled recesses provide intricate detail across the specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe combination of translucent sections and more opaque crystalline areas creates variation in how light interacts with the mineral.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWithin traditional crystal symbolism, blue fluorite represents clarity, communication and emotional balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBeyond these symbolic associations, the specimen's principal appeal lies in its natural crystalline detail, contrasting mineral colours and connection to Cornwall's historic mineral-producing landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecimen Details\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMineral:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fluorite with iron oxide staining\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChemical Formula:\u003c\/strong\u003e CaF₂ (Fluorite)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMineral Group:\u003c\/strong\u003e Halides\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrystal System:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cubic (Isometric)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMohs Hardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSupplied Locality Attribution:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wheal Mary Ann\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLocation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Menheniot, Cornwall, England\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 215g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 62.6mm × 47.3mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFormation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Natural fluorite specimen with iron-stained crystalline surfaces\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blue-grey, smoky blue, translucent white, cream, golden orange and rusty brown\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFeatures:\u003c\/strong\u003e Angular fluorite crystal faces, natural cleavage surfaces, translucent crystalline areas, contrasting blue-grey and cream mineral growth, and iron oxide staining\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShape:\u003c\/strong\u003e Raw\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Natural, unpolished\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQuantity:\u003c\/strong\u003e One individual specimen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou will receive the exact specimen photographed. Natural mineral specimens may display irregular edges, fractures, inclusions, uneven surfaces, mineral staining and delicate crystalline formations.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe acrylic display support, wooden plinth and decorative flowers shown in the photographs are not included.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eSources \u0026amp; References\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBritish Geological Survey – Plymouth and South-East Cornwall Area, Geological Memoir (Sheet 348).\u003c\/strong\u003e Geological documentation describing the Menheniot mineral veins, Wheal Mary Ann mineralisation and multiple generations of fluorite formation.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/webapps.bgs.ac.uk\/memoirs\/docs\/B06072.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eBritish Geological Survey Geological Memoir\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBritish Geological Survey – Silver, Mineral Resources Consultative Committee Mineral Dossier.\u003c\/strong\u003e Geological and historical information concerning the Menheniot lead-silver mining district.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/nora.nerc.ac.uk\/id\/eprint\/540032\/1\/B02707.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eBritish Geological Survey Silver Mineral Dossier\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMindat – Wheal Mary Ann, Menheniot, Cornwall.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mineral locality database documenting fluorite and associated mineral species.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.mindat.org\/loc-1074.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eWheal Mary Ann Mineral Locality\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eUniversity of Cambridge – Fluorite Mineral Collection.\u003c\/strong\u003e Mineralogical information concerning fluorite's chemical composition, crystal system, cleavage and physical properties.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/p1acollections.esc.cam.ac.uk\/p1acollections\/exhibits\/show\/minerals\/fluorite.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eUniversity of Cambridge Fluorite Collection\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHenwood, W. J. (1871).\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eObservations on Metalliferous Deposits: On the Lead Mines of Menheniot, Lanreath and Saint Pinnock.\u003c\/em\u003e Transactions of the Royal Geological Society of Cornwall, Volume 8, pages 699–722.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e","brand":"Harpo's Angels","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":59287064904015,"sku":"A47","price":47.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1028\/1238\/5615\/files\/download_fb4ae574-73a3-416e-9376-51d2c00633a4.png?v=1793132657","url":"https:\/\/harposangels.co.uk\/products\/blue-grey-fluorite-with-golden-iron-oxide-wheal-mary-ann-menheniot-cornwall","provider":"Harpo's Angels","version":"1.0","type":"link"}