{"product_id":"goethite-wood-iron-restormel-royal-iron-mine-cornwall","title":"Goethite “Wood Iron” | Restormel Royal Iron Mine, Cornwall | No. 2","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGoethite \"Wood Iron\" – Restormel Royal Iron Mine, Cornwall\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fascinating 445g specimen of Goethite, traditionally known as \"Wood Iron\", originating from the historic Restormel Royal Iron Mine near Lostwithiel, Cornwall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Iron is a distinctive variety of goethite recognised for its fibrous, layered and sometimes wood-like mineral textures. This traditional name reflects the remarkable structures produced during the natural formation of iron-rich mineral deposits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginating from one of Cornwall's historically important iron mines, this specimen offers a wonderful connection between natural mineral formation and the county's extraordinary mining heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecimen Description\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-pm-slice=\"1 1 []\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn exceptional natural Goethite “Wood Iron” specimen from the historic Restormel Royal Iron Mine near Lostwithiel, Cornwall, showcasing a fascinating combination of fibrous mineral growth, rounded botryoidal formations and striking iron-rich colouration.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis substantial 445g specimen displays a complex arrangement of dark charcoal-grey and brown goethite, with beautifully defined radiating structures that resemble the grain of wood. These intricate formations are particularly noticeable across the exposed surfaces, where tightly packed fibres create distinctive fan-shaped and concentric patterns.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eScattered throughout the specimen are rounded, botryoidal goethite formations, adding depth and contrast to the more structured, fibrous mineral growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVivid golden-yellow and rusty-orange iron-rich deposits occupy the natural crevices and exposed surfaces, creating a striking contrast against the darker mineral formations. These ochre-coloured areas are characteristic of iron mineral weathering and alteration.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOne particularly attractive feature is the presence of natural cavities and openings, revealing additional mineral structures beneath the surface. A pale, crystalline quartz-rich area is also visible within one of these openings, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding dark goethite.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe specimen's natural formation provides an excellent opportunity to examine several different iron mineral textures within a single piece, from smooth, rounded surfaces to radiating fibres and compact layered growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOriginating from one of Cornwall's historically significant iron mines, this specimen is an appealing addition to any collection of British minerals, Cornish mining specimens or unusual geological formations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAbout Goethite \u0026amp; Wood Iron\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGoethite (FeO(OH))\u003c\/strong\u003e is an iron oxyhydroxide mineral and an important constituent of many iron ore deposits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system and has a Mohs hardness of approximately 5–5.5.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGoethite commonly develops through the oxidation and alteration of iron-bearing minerals, particularly in environments where oxygenated water interacts with existing iron deposits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mineral can form in several distinctive habits, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFibrous and radiating crystal aggregates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConcentric and banded formations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBotryoidal or rounded mineral surfaces\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompact, earthy and massive deposits\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLayered structures historically described as Wood Iron\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWood Iron\u003c\/strong\u003e is a traditional descriptive term rather than a separate mineral species. It refers to goethite formations whose fibrous or layered structures resemble wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike petrified wood, Wood Iron does not necessarily contain any original organic material. Its wood-like appearance can arise entirely from mineral growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHistoric mineral collections frequently preserve these traditional names because they provide valuable insight into the terminology used by early mineralogists and collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eMine History \u0026amp; Cornish Heritage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRestormel Royal Iron Mine\u003c\/strong\u003e is situated near Lostwithiel, Cornwall, close to the historic Restormel Castle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike the numerous Cornish mines principally associated with tin and copper extraction, Restormel Royal became particularly well known for its iron ore deposits and distinctive iron mineral specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe locality was historically known as \u003cstrong\u003eTrinity Mine\u003c\/strong\u003e, with mineral collecting recorded during the late eighteenth century. The celebrated Cornish mineral collector Philip Rashleigh obtained specimens from the area during the 1790s.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mine developed around an extensive iron-bearing lode, with a large opencast excavation traditionally known as a gunnis. Underground workings were subsequently developed beneath the earlier excavations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the mine's most remarkable historical events occurred in \u003cstrong\u003eSeptember 1846\u003c\/strong\u003e, when Queen Victoria and Prince Albert visited the workings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring their visit, the royal couple travelled underground in a mine truck drawn by miners to inspect the iron ore deposits. The association with this royal visit contributed to the mine becoming known as Restormel Royal Iron Mine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mine continued operating during the nineteenth century, eventually closing in 1883.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRestormel Royal is particularly significant to mineral collectors because of its iron mineralisation, including goethite, hematite and associated quartz.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHistoric specimens from the mine demonstrate the varied textures that iron minerals can develop, from fibrous and layered formations to dense, compact and botryoidal masses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Royal Cornwall Museum preserves mineral specimens associated with the locality, helping document the relationship between Cornwall's mining industry, early mineral collecting and scientific study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Iron specimens are especially evocative of this heritage, retaining a traditional mineral name that reflects how early collectors described the unusual textures found within Cornwall's iron deposits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIntention \u0026amp; Associated Chakras\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWithin traditional crystal healing practices, Goethite is associated with grounding, resilience and emotional stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrounding:\u003c\/strong\u003e Traditionally associated with maintaining a sense of stability and connection to the physical world.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProtection:\u003c\/strong\u003e Symbolically connected with strength, personal boundaries and security.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEmotional Reflection:\u003c\/strong\u003e Associated with patience, introspection and processing difficult experiences.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eResilience:\u003c\/strong\u003e Traditionally linked with perseverance and inner strength.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAssociated Chakra:\u003c\/strong\u003e Root Chakra.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIntentions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Protection and Calm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese associations are based on spiritual traditions and are not scientifically established properties of the mineral.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eNatural Formation \u0026amp; Symbolism\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs a naturally formed raw specimen, this piece represents the gradual geological processes responsible for the formation and alteration of iron-bearing minerals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe distinctive layered structure associated with Wood Iron is often symbolically connected with endurance, accumulated experience and the passage of time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts natural, unpolished character makes it particularly appealing to collectors who appreciate minerals in their original geological form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecimen Details\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMineral:\u003c\/strong\u003e Goethite\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eTraditional Variety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Wood Iron\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChemical Formula:\u003c\/strong\u003e FeO(OH)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMineral Class:\u003c\/strong\u003e Oxides and Hydroxides\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrystal System:\u003c\/strong\u003e Orthorhombic\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMohs Hardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e 5–5.5\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMine:\u003c\/strong\u003e Restormel Royal Iron Mine\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Mine Name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Trinity Mine\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLocality:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lostwithiel, Cornwall, England\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 445g\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50.5mm × 85.8mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFormation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Natural raw mineral specimen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eQuantity:\u003c\/strong\u003e One individual specimen\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eYou will receive the individual specimen photographed. Natural mineral specimens may contain irregular edges, fractures, weathered surfaces and variations associated with their geological formation.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSources \u0026amp; References\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe following resources provide further information about Restormel Royal Iron Mine, its historical importance and the mineralogy of goethite:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.mindat.org\/loc-1028.html\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMindat – Restormel Royal Iron Mine (Trinity Mine)\u003c\/a\u003e. Mineral locality records and documented mineral occurrences.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/virtualmicroscope.org\/content\/goethite-0\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eVirtual Microscope – Goethite, Royal Cornwall Museum Collection\u003c\/a\u003e. Historical Cornish mineral specimen and information relating to Restormel Royal Iron Mine.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/minearchive.co.uk\/mines\/restormel-royal-iron-mine\/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMineArchive – Restormel Royal Iron Mine\u003c\/a\u003e. Historical overview of the mine and its workings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.mindat.org\/min-1719.html\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eMindat – Goethite\u003c\/a\u003e. Mineralogical information, chemical composition, crystal structure and physical characteristics.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003csmall\u003eHistorical references describe the documented mine locality rather than the extraction history of this individual specimen. Its provenance is based on supplied collection information. Mineral identification has not been independently laboratory verified.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Harpo's Angels","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":59237136302415,"sku":null,"price":78.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1028\/1238\/5615\/files\/download_659eaf36-49a7-44ae-b688-077732679691.png?v=1792783243","url":"https:\/\/harposangels.co.uk\/products\/goethite-wood-iron-restormel-royal-iron-mine-cornwall","provider":"Harpo's Angels","version":"1.0","type":"link"}