Rhodochrosite, Hubnerite, Tetrahedrite, and Needle Quartz

Rhodochrosite, Hubnerite, Tetrahedrite, and Needle Quartz. This specimen is a classic example from the Sweet Home Mine, famous for producing the world's finest rhodochrosite crystals.

Rhodochrosite, Hubnerite, Tetrahedrite, and Needle Quartz Photo Copyright © Exceptionalminerals

Minerals Present:

• Rhodochrosite (MnCO₃): The primary mineral. Forms transparent, deep red rhombohedral crystals. This mine is the global standard for this quality.
• Hübnerite (MnWO₄): An accessory mineral. Appears as thin, bladed, metallic-dark brown to black crystals.
• Tetrahedrite ((Cu,Fe)₁₂Sb₄S₁₃): A sulfide ore mineral. Forms metallic, gray-to-black tetrahedral  crystals. It often acted as a matrix for the other minerals to grow on.
• Quartz (SiO₂): Occurs as "needle quartz," which are long, slender, clear, acicular crystals. It is typically the last mineral to form.

Geological Significance: This combination records the paragenetic sequence—the order of mineral  formation—from the hydrothermal fluids that filled the fracture. The  tetrahedrite formed first, followed by hübnerite and rhodochrosite, with  quartz crystallizing last.

Provenance: Hedgehog Pocket, Main Stope Drift, Sweet Home Mine, Alma, Colorado. The Hedgehog Pocket in the Sweet Home Mine is a legendary source.  Specimens from this location are benchmarks for quality and are highly  prized by collectors.