Description
Hematite from the Historic Florence Mine, Egremont
This specimen of hematite from the Florence Mine, Egremont, Cumbria, England represents one of the most famous and celebrated minerals ever to come out of Britain. Renowned worldwide for its brilliant metallic luster and striking crystalline habits, Florence Mine hematite has been treasured by mineral collectors for generations. Measuring between 30–60mm, each piece has been carefully selected to showcase the unique features that make these specimens so distinctive and highly sought after.
All of our pieces are 100% genuine specimens and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. The specimen shown in the photograph is an example of the quality you can expect, with a 1cm scale cube for accurate sizing.
Geological Setting and Mining Heritage
The Florence Mine lies in the famous Egremont iron ore field of Cumbria, part of the Carboniferous Limestone sequence that was heavily mineralised by hydrothermal fluids. The hematite formed in veins and cavities where iron-rich solutions crystallised, producing ore of both industrial and collectible importance.
This locality became synonymous with high-quality hematite, often referred to as “kidney ore” due to its rounded, botryoidal surfaces. The Florence Mine was the last deep iron ore mine in Western Europe, closing in 2007, which has made these specimens increasingly rare and historically important.
Mineral Type and Classification
Hematite is an iron oxide mineral with the chemical formula Fe₂O₃. It is one of the most abundant and economically significant iron ores, with a long history of use stretching back to ancient times for pigments, tools, and metallurgy.
- Mineral Group: Oxides
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Mohs Hardness: 5.5 – 6.5
- Streak: Distinctive reddish-brown
- Specific Gravity: ~5.3
The Florence Mine specimens are known for their exceptional metallic sheen, often appearing deep steel-grey to black, with reflective flashes of silver. When powdered, they reveal the unmistakable red streak characteristic of hematite, a diagnostic trait of the mineral.
Morphological Features
Florence Mine hematite occurs in several striking forms, including:
- Botryoidal Kidney Ore: Rounded, bulbous shapes with smooth reflective surfaces.
- Radiating Crystal Clusters: Thin blades and plates arranged in striking sprays.
- Massive Compact Ore: Dense, heavy pieces valued for their weight and polish.
The specimens from Egremont are particularly admired for their mirror-like metallic surfaces and dense, high-quality structure, making them stand out in any collection.
Scientific and Collectible Importance
Beyond its industrial value, hematite from Florence Mine holds deep significance in the study of mineralisation. It provides insight into the hydrothermal processes that formed the ore bodies of Cumbria, and its presence in specific geological zones makes it an important reference mineral.
For collectors, Florence hematite is considered a “classic British mineral.” Since the closure of the mine, no new material is being produced, and specimens have become increasingly scarce on the market. This has cemented their place as desirable pieces for both private collections and educational displays.
Display and Decorative Value
Each specimen, sized between 30–60mm, is ideal for handling, study, or display. Its high reflectivity and striking metallic finish give it visual appeal well beyond its geological interest, making it equally suitable for mineral cabinets, educational settings, or as a decorative accent.
Every piece is unique, with variations in form, luster, and surface detail, ensuring that no two specimens are identical. Owning a piece of hematite from the Florence Mine in Egremont, Cumbria is not just adding a mineral to a collection—it is acquiring a tangible connection to Britain’s mining heritage and geological history.
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