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Fluorapatite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
11 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Muscovite
Minas -
Fluorapatite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
11 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Muscovite
Minas -
Fluorapatite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
11 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Muscovite
Minas -
Fluorapatite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
11 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Muscovite
Minas -
Fluorapatite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 5 cm x 3 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Muscovite
Minas -
Fluorapatite, Quartz, Muscovite, Arsenopyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
8 cm x 4 cm x 3 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Quartz, Muscovite, Arsenopyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, -
Fluorapatite, Quartz, Muscovite, Arsenopyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
8 cm x 4 cm x 3 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Quartz, Muscovite, Arsenopyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, -
Fluorapatite, Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 5 cm x 3 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira -
Fluorapatite, Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 5 cm x 3 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira -
Fluorapatite, Siderite, Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 5 cm x 3 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Siderite, Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portuga -
Fluorapatite, Sphalerite, Muscovite, Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
12 cm x 10 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Sphalerite, Muscovite, Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, -
Fluorapatite, Sphalerite, Quartz, Muscovite, Siderite
14 cm x 12 cm x 7 cm
(Author: silvia)
Fluorapatite, Sphalerite, Quartz, Muscovite, Siderite
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Fluorapatite, Sphalerite, Quartz, Muscovite, Siderite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
14 cm x 12 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Sphalerite, Quartz, Muscovite, Siderite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Fluorapatite, Sphalerite, Quartz, Muscovite, Siderite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
14 cm x 12 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Sphalerite, Quartz, Muscovite, Siderite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Fluorapatite, Sphalerite, Siderite, Chalcopyrite, Muscovite, Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
12 cm x 10 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Sphalerite, Siderite, Chalcopyrite, Muscovite, Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo -
Fluorapatite, Topaz, Goyazite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
4 cm x 3 cm x 3 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Topaz, Goyazite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centr -
Fluorapatite, Topaz, Goyazite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
4 cm x 3 cm x 3 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Topaz, Goyazite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centr -
Fluorapatite, Topaz, Goyazite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
4 cm x 3 cm x 3 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Topaz, Goyazite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centr -
Fluorapatite, Topaz, Goyazite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
4 cm x 3 cm x 3 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorapatite, Topaz, Goyazite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centr -
Fluorite, Fluorapatite, Siderite, Muscovite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
9 cm x 8 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorite, Fluorapatite, Siderite, Muscovite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova d -
Fluorite, Fluorapatite, Siderite, Muscovite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
9 cm x 8 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorite, Fluorapatite, Siderite, Muscovite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova d -
Fluorite, Fluorapatite, Siderite, Muscovite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
9 cm x 8 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorite, Fluorapatite, Siderite, Muscovite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova d -
Fluorite, Fluorapatite, Siderite, Muscovite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
9 cm x 8 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorite, Fluorapatite, Siderite, Muscovite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova d -
Fluorite, Fluorapatite, Siderite, Muscovite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
9 cm x 8 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorite, Fluorapatite, Siderite, Muscovite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova d -
Fluorite, Pyrite, Siderite, Fluorapatite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
8 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorite, Pyrite, Siderite, Fluorapatite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centr -
Fluorite, Pyrite, Siderite, Fluorapatite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
8 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorite, Pyrite, Siderite, Fluorapatite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centr -
Fluorite, Pyrite, Siderite, Fluorapatite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
8 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorite, Pyrite, Siderite, Fluorapatite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centr -
Fluorite, Pyrite, Siderite, Fluorapatite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
8 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorite, Pyrite, Siderite, Fluorapatite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centr -
Fluorite, Siderite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
8 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Fluorite, Siderite, Pyrite
Min -
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
14 cm x 12 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)FOV 30 mm
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Galena with Dolomite (variety Fe-bearing dolomite)
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountains, Satu Mare, Romania
110 mm x 80 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Galena with Dolomite (variety Fe-bearing dolomite)
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountain -
Galena with Dolomite (variety Fe-bearing dolomite)
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountains, Satu Mare, Romania
110 mm x 80 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Galena with Dolomite (variety Fe-bearing dolomite)
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountain -
Galena with Dolomite (variety Fe-bearing dolomite)
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountains, Satu Mare, Romania
110 mm x 80 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Galena with Dolomite (variety Fe-bearing dolomite)
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountain -
Galena with Dolomite (variety Fe-bearing dolomite)
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountains, Satu Mare, Romania
110 mm x 80 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Galena with Dolomite (variety Fe-bearing dolomite)
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountain -
Galena, Calcite
Krushev dol Mine, Madan mining area, Rhodope Mountains, Smolyan Oblast, Bulgaria
140 mm x 110 mm x 100 mm (Author: silvia)Galena, Calcite
Krushev dol Mi -
Galena, Calcite
Krushev dol Mine, Madan mining area, Rhodope Mountains, Smolyan Oblast, Bulgaria
140 mm x 110 mm x 100 mm (Author: silvia)Galena, Calcite
Krushev dol Mi -
Galena, Calcite
Krushev dol Mine, Madan mining area, Rhodope Mountains, Smolyan Oblast, Bulgaria
140 mm x 110 mm x 100 mm (Author: silvia)Galena, Calcite
Krushev dol Mi -
Galena, Calcite
Krushev dol Mine, Madan mining area, Rhodope Mountains, Smolyan Oblast, Bulgaria
140 mm x 110 mm x 100 mm (Author: silvia)Galena, Calcite
Krushev dol Mi -
Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L. Davis-Deardorff Mine, Ozark-Mahoning group, Cave-in-Rock Sub-District, Hardin County, Illinois, USA
15 cm x 13 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L -
Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L. Davis-Deardorff Mine, Ozark-Mahoning group, Cave-in-Rock Sub-District, Hardin County, Illinois, USA
15 cm x 13 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L -
Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L. Davis-Deardorff Mine, Ozark-Mahoning group, Cave-in-Rock Sub-District, Hardin County, Illinois, USA
15 cm x 13 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L -
Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L. Davis-Deardorff Mine, Ozark-Mahoning group, Cave-in-Rock Sub-District, Hardin County, Illinois, USA
15 cm x 13 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L -
Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L. Davis-Deardorff Mine, Ozark-Mahoning group, Cave-in-Rock Sub-District, Hardin County, Illinois, USA
15 cm x 13 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L -
Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L. Davis-Deardorff Mine, Ozark-Mahoning group, Cave-in-Rock Sub-District, Hardin County, Illinois, USA
15 cm x 13 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L -
Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L. Davis-Deardorff Mine, Ozark-Mahoning group, Cave-in-Rock Sub-District, Hardin County, Illinois, USA
15 cm x 13 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Quartz, Sphalerite
W.L -
Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountains, Satu Mare, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
T -
Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountains, Satu Mare, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
T -
Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountains, Satu Mare, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
T -
Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountains, Satu Mare, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
T -
Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountains, Satu Mare, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
T -
Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
Turt Mine, Turt, Negresti-Oas, Oas Mountains, Satu Mare, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Galena, Siderite, Sphalerite
T -
HAULAGE SHAFT NIGHT AND DAY WITH CONVEYOR SYSTEM
The Mine, utilized a main haulage shaft as a critical artery for material transport. After the Copper ore was extracted from stopes and crushed underground, it was transferred to the surface via a series of underground conveyor systems. Haulage shafts remain a critical component in modern underground mining, especially as operations extend to greater depths. While declines and ramps are suitable for shallower deposits, vertical shafts become more economical and often necessary for efficient transportation of ore, personnel, equipment, and for vital functions like ventilation and utility corridors.
Contemporary mines leverage advanced technology in haulage shaft design and operation. Modern hoists, often powered by variable frequency controlled AC drives, facilitate rapid and high-capacity movement of skips (for ore) and cages (for personnel and materials). Automated skip loading systems and real-time monitoring of shaft conditions, often through LiDAR-based 3D scanning, significantly enhance safety and efficiency, enabling predictive maintenance and minimizing downtime.
At the Milpillas Mine, after the crushed ore was hoisted from the underground workings to the surface, an extensive and vital conveyor belt system took over. This system, the backbone of surface material handling, was meticulously designed for the continuous and efficient transport of ore to the processing plant.
The network at Milpillas comprised multiple, interconnected belts, each engineered to handle significant tonnages and often traversing substantial distances. These belts were robust, built with multiple plies for strength and wear resistance, and supported by a series of idlers. Transfer points were crucial, allowing ore to seamlessly move from one belt to the next, forming a complex yet highly optimized material flow path. This “truckless†approach significantly reduced operational costs, fuel consumption, and environmental impact compared to traditional truck haulage.
Key design considerations for the Milpillas conveyor system had focused on maximizing system availability, minimizing wear on components, and facilitating easy maintenance to ensure uninterrupted operation. Advanced control systems, including variable speed drives and material tracking, were employed to optimize belt loading, conserve energy, and provide real-time data on ore flow and quality, all contributing to the overall efficiency of the mine’s surface operations.
Original photos courtesy of Veronica Santoyo (Author: silvia)
HAULAGE SHAFT NIGHT AND DAY WITH C
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Hematite
Goose Green Mine, Frizington, Arlecdon & Frizington, Copeland, West Cumberland Iron Field, former Cumberland, Cumbria, England / United Kingdom
8 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Hematite
Goose Green Mine, Fri -
Hematite
Goose Green Mine, Frizington, Arlecdon & Frizington, Copeland, West Cumberland Iron Field, former Cumberland, Cumbria, England / United Kingdom
8 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Hematite
Goose Green Mine, Fri -
Hematite
Goose Green Mine, Frizington, Arlecdon & Frizington, Copeland, West Cumberland Iron Field, former Cumberland, Cumbria, England / United Kingdom
8 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Hematite
Goose Green Mine, Fri -
INSIDE THE ELECTROWINNING PLANT
The top photo shows the electrolytic cells during insertion of cathode plates. The middle photo shows the Copper clad cathode plates being removed from the tank for processing, and the bottom photo shows the tank charged with new blank cathode plates.
The plant included the use of permanent stainless steel cathodes. Unlike older methods that required “starter sheets†of Copper, these permanent cathodes reduced labor and operational complexities. The Copper was deposited directly onto these blanks, and then mechanically stripped off as high-purity cathode sheets.
Outokumpu’s cell designs incorporated polymer concrete cells, known for their durability and chemical resistance in the acidic electrolyte environment. A double-contact bus bar system was a characteristic feature, ensuring efficient current distribution and minimizing energy losses. Ventilation hoods were fitted for effective mist control to capture sulphuric acid mist generated during electrolysis to improve worker safety and reduce environmental emissions.
Furthermore, the plant used advanced automation for handling and stripping the Copper cathodes. This included automated cathode pulling cranes that lift the entire cell hoods and then the loaded cathodes for washing and stripping. The emphasis was on maintaining precise control over electrolyte flow, temperature, and current density to optimize Copper deposition, achieve LME (London Metal Exchange) Grade A purity, and prevent issues like dendrite formation.
The rapid expansion to 65,000 tons of Copper cathode by 2008 further underscored the plant’s success and the efficiency of its design and operations. This increased capacity demonstrated the flexibility and scalability inherent in the SX-EW process, allowing for quick responses to market demands and maximizing the economic potential of the Milpillas ore body. The partnership between Outokumpu Technology, with its deep expertise in metallurgical solutions, and Industrias Peñoles, a significant player in the Mexican mining landscape, was crucial. This collaboration brought together world-class engineering and local operational knowledge, creating a facility that not only met but exceeded expectations. The Milpillas plant truly epitomizes the advancements in sustainable and efficient Copper production that defined the early 21st century.
Original photos courtesy of Ofelia Noyola (Author: silvia)
INSIDE THE ELECTROWINNING PLANT T
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Location Photo
Map of the location of the El Sherana mine within the South Alligator Uranium field. About 2 kilometres south of the main camp via Gimbat road is the location of the gravity Separation plant which was demolished sometime in the late 80’s or early 90’s. The location of the site of the plant is still clearly visible in recent (ca. 2023) aerial photographs.
The area contains numerous deposits of Uranium which were exploited from about 1953 to 1970. The first discovery of Uranium in the area occurred at Coronation Hill some 13 kilometers south–east of the El Sherana mine. The discovery was made in 1953 on Coronation day (June 2nd) by B. P. Walpole a Geologist working for the Bureau of Mineral Resources.
The most colourful deposit in the whole Uranium field was the Palette mine located about 7 kilometers south-east of El Sherana. It was reached by a winding, precipitous road whose access was often cut by the flooding of the South Alligator River during the wet season. It was at the same elevation as El Sherana. The Palette mine was a large fan shaped deposit adjoining a sheer white cliff face. Joe Fisher, mining consultant and pioneer of Uranium mining in South Alligator River, named the site ‘palette’ because he said the Uranium mineralisation reminded him of the colourful daubs of paint one might see on an artist’s palette. Eyewitness accounts spoke of a truly colourful place glittering magnificently in the sunlight where the hues of blackish Uraninite, orange Gummite, lime-green Autunite, apple-green Torbernite and dark-yellow Soddyite were clearly visible even from a distance of a hundred metres or more.
John Webb, who was the field Superintendant with the Australian Atomic Energy Commission’s at the time (1958) stated that many of the secondary Uranium minerals recovered at the Palette mine were superb collector pieces too good to be broken up and sold as ordinary Uranium ore. Regrettably few if any ‘collector quality’ specimens from this mine can be seen in modern day mineral collections.
Other mines in the area include but are not limited to Koolpin, Scinto, Cliff Face, Skull and Saddle Ridge. UUNL records indicate that El Sherana was the largest producer of Uranium ore in the region. (Author: silvia)
Location Photo Map of the locatio
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Lollingite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Calcite, Magnetite and Fluorite.
Huanggang Mines, Hexigten Banner (KèshÃkèténg QÃ), Chifeng (Ulanhad), Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
90 mm x 90 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Lollingite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Calcite, Magnetite and Fluorite.
Huanggang Mines, Hexigten Banner (KèshÃkèténg QÃ), Chifeng (Ulanhad), -
Lollingite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Calcite, Magnetite and Fluorite.
Huanggang Mines, Hexigten Banner (KèshÃkèténg QÃ), Chifeng (Ulanhad), Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
Dimensions: 90 mm x 90 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Lollingite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Calcite, Magnetite and Fluorite.
Huanggang Mines, Hexigten Banner (KèshÃkèténg QÃ), Chifeng (Ulanhad), -
Lollingite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Calcite, Magnetite and Fluorite.
Huanggang Mines, Hexigten Banner (KèshÃkèténg QÃ), Chifeng (Ulanhad), Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
90 mm x 90 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Lollingite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Calcite, Magnetite and Fluorite.
Huanggang Mines, Hexigten Banner (KèshÃkèténg QÃ), Chifeng (Ulanhad), -
Lollingite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Calcite, Magnetite and Fluorite.
Huanggang Mines, Hexigten Banner (KèshÃkèténg QÃ), Chifeng (Ulanhad), Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China
90 mm x 90 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Lollingite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Calcite, Magnetite and Fluorite.
Huanggang Mines, Hexigten Banner (KèshÃkèténg QÃ), Chifeng (Ulanhad), -
MAIN HOIST ENGINE AT MILPILLAS
Siemag Tecberg, a global leader in shaft hoisting technology, supplied the critical hoist machinery for the main hoist shaft at the Milpillas Mine. The installed hoist equipment was capable of handling significant payloads and operating at impressive speeds, often exceeding 15m/s with capacities up to 60 tons per cycle, depending on the mine’s requirements and depth. The installation of such a sophisticated hoist at Milpillas involved a comprehensive process, from initial design and engineering tailored to the mine’s unique geology and production targets, to manufacturing, on-site assembly, and rigorous commissioning. At the Milpillas Mine the hoist was tower mounted. Given the scale and depth of the main production shaft at Milpillas, a multi-rope friction hoist (Koepe winder) was installed. This hoist-in-head-frame layout, with its deflecting sheaves, optimized space and distributed the load across multiple ropes, thereby enhancing safety. The overall layout was meticulously planned to ensure seamless integration with the mine’s material handling and ventilation systems.
Original photos courtesy of Lopez Hernandez (Author: silvia)
MAIN HOIST ENGINE AT MILPILLAS S
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Malachite after Azurite on Goethite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
13 cm x 7 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite after Azurite on Goethite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, -
Malachite after Azurite on Goethite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
13 cm x 7 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite after Azurite on Goethite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, -
Malachite after Azurite on Goethite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
13 cm x 7 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite after Azurite on Goethite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, -
Malachite after Azurite on Goethite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
13 cm x 7 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite after Azurite on Goethite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, -
Malachite after Azurite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
90 mm x 80 mm x 40 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite after Azurite
Milpil -
Malachite after Azurite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
90 mm x 80 mm x 40 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite after Azurite
Milpil -
Malachite on Dolomite
Mashamba West Mine, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
120 mm x 90 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite on Dolomite
Mashamba -
Malachite on Dolomite
Mashamba West Mine, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
120 mm x 90 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite on Dolomite
Mashamba -
Malachite on Dolomite
Mashamba West Mine, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
120 mm x 90 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite on Dolomite
Mashamba -
Malachite on Dolomite
Mashamba West Mine, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
120 mm x 90 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite on Dolomite
Mashamba -
Malachite with Baryte
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 80 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite with Baryte
Milpilla -
Malachite with Baryte
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 80 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite with Baryte
Milpilla -
Malachite with Baryte
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 80 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite with Baryte
Milpilla -
Malachite with Baryte
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 80 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite with Baryte
Milpilla -
Malachite, Cuprite
Musonoi Mine, Kolwezi, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
10 cm x 8 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite, Cuprite
Musonoi Min -
Malachite, Cuprite
Musonoi Mine, Kolwezi, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
10 cm x 8 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite, Cuprite
Musonoi Min -
Malachite, Cuprite
Musonoi Mine, Kolwezi, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
10 cm x 8 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite, Cuprite
Musonoi Min -
Malachite, Cuprite
Musonoi Mine, Kolwezi, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
10 cm x 8 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite, Cuprite
Musonoi Min -
Malachite, Cuprite
Musonoi Mine, Kolwezi, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
10 cm x 8 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite, Cuprite
Musonoi Min -
Malachite, Plancheite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 90 mm x 45 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite, Plancheite
Milpilla -
Malachite, Plancheite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 90 mm x 45 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite, Plancheite
Milpilla -
Malachite, Plancheite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 90 mm x 45 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite, Plancheite
Milpilla -
Malachite, Plancheite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 90 mm x 45 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite, Plancheite
Milpilla -
Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindigi Mine), Swambo, Kambove District, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
18 cm x 10 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindi -
Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindigi Mine), Swambo, Kambove District, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
18 cm x 10 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindi -
Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindigi Mine), Swambo, Kambove District, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
18 cm x 10 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindi -
Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindigi Mine), Swambo, Kambove District, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
18 cm x 10 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindi -
Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindigi Mine), Swambo, Kambove District, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
15 cm x 12 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindi -
Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindigi Mine), Swambo, Kambove District, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
15 cm x 12 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindi -
Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindigi Mine), Swambo, Kambove District, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
15 cm x 12 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindi -
Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindigi Mine), Swambo, Kambove District, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
15 cm x 12 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindi -
Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindigi Mine), Swambo, Kambove District, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
11 cm x 10 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindi -
Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindigi Mine), Swambo, Kambove District, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
11 cm x 10 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mindingi Mine (Mindi -
Malachite
Burra, Mount Lofty Ranges, South Australia, Australia
80 mm x 60 mm x 40 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Burra, Mount Lofty R -
Malachite
Burra, Mount Lofty Ranges, South Australia, Australia
80 mm x 60 mm x 40 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Burra, Mount Lofty R -
Malachite
Burra, Mount Lofty Ranges, South Australia, Australia
80 mm x 60 mm x 40 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Burra, Mount Lofty R -
Malachite
Burra, Mount Lofty Ranges, South Australia, Australia
80 mm x 60 mm x 40 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Burra, Mount Lofty R -
Malachite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 80 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Milpillas Mine, Cuit -
Malachite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 80 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Milpillas Mine, Cuit -
Malachite
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
120 mm x 80 mm x 50 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Milpillas Mine, Cuit -
Malachite
Mashamba West Mine, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
170 mm x 120 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mashamba West Mine, -
Malachite
Mashamba West Mine, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
170 mm x 120 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mashamba West Mine, -
Malachite
Mashamba West Mine, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
170 mm x 120 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Malachite
Mashamba West Mine, -
Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite-Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
10 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite-Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite-Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
10 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite-Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite-Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
10 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite-Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Cent -
Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
10 cm x 7 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, C -
Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
10 cm x 7 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, C -
Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
10 cm x 7 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
10 cm x 7 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Arsenopyrite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Marcasite, Arsenopyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
10 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Arsenopyrite
Minas -
Marcasite, Arsenopyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
10 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Arsenopyrite
Minas -
Marcasite, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite & Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite & Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Marcasite, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite & Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite & Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Marcasite, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite & Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite & Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Marcasite, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite & Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite & Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Marcasite, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite & Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Calcite & Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Marcasite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mine, Oumjrane mining area, Alnif Commune, Tinghir Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
140 mm x 90 mm x 80 mm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mi -
Marcasite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mine, Oumjrane mining area, Alnif Commune, Tinghir Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
140 mm x 90 mm x 80 mm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mi -
Marcasite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mine, Oumjrane mining area, Alnif Commune, Tinghir Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
140 mm x 90 mm x 80 mm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mi -
Marcasite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mine, Oumjrane mining area, Alnif Commune, Tinghir Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
140 mm x 90 mm x 80 mm (Author: silvia)Marcasite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mi -
Mashamba West Mine, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
(Author: silvia)Mashamba East Pit (photo courtesy
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Meta-Torbernite
El Sherana Mine, South Alligator River, West Arnhem Region, Northern Territory, Australia
80 mm x 70 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Meta-Torbernite
El Sherana Min -
Meta-Torbernite
El Sherana Mine, South Alligator River, West Arnhem Region, Northern Territory, Australia
80 mm x 70 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Meta-Torbernite
El Sherana Min -
Meta-Torbernite
El Sherana Mine, South Alligator River, West Arnhem Region, Northern Territory, Australia
80 mm x 70 mm x 60 mm (Author: silvia)Meta-Torbernite
El Sherana Min -
MILPILLAS MINE BY NIGHT AND BY DAY
These photographs capture groundbreaking moments at the Milpillas Solvent-Extraction and ElectroWinning plant, presenting both night and day perspectives. Prominently featured in the upper right section of the images are the crushed Copper ore leach pads and the associated ponds, which are notably rich in acid-leached Copper solution. The building at the top, the one closest to the heap leach pads is the electrowinning plant.
Commissioned in 2005, this advanced facility was the outcome of a significant partnership between Outokumpu Technology, a leader in metallurgical solutions, and Industrias Peñoles. Outokumpu’s extensive involvement ensured the plant, initially designed for 45,000 tons of high-purity Copper cathodes annually (with an expansion to 65,000 tons by 2008), would be a success for CompañÃa Minera La Parreña. Like its counterpart in Laos, Milpillas didn’t just become part of Mexican mining history; it also perfectly illustrated the significant technological shifts in Copper production at the turn of the millennium.
Unlike many mines that produce Copper concentrate, Milpillas produced high-purity Copper cathodes through a sophisticated process of underground mining, heap leaching, solvent extraction (SX), and electrowinning (EW). This integrated approach bypassed the need for smelting and refining elsewhere, streamlining the journey of Copper from its ore state to a commercially valuable product.
Original photos courtesy of AlanÃs Ortega (Author: silvia)
MILPILLAS MINE BY NIGHT AND BY DAY
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MILPILLAS UNDERGROUND - STORAGE ZONE
The nature of the Milpillas mine’s underground drives and storage areas was intrinsically linked to its “cut-and-fill†mining method and the unique geological characteristics of the deposit. The mine’s infrastructure consisted of a network of drives (tunnels) excavated to access and extract the ore. These drives were carefully designed to follow the complex ore bodies, which included lenticular, flat-lying oxide zones at varying elevations, as well as deeper supergene sulphide zones. The underground layout facilitated the movement of equipment, personnel, and ore, as well as providing ventilation and drainage. To maintain ground stability in the created voids, waste material or cemented fill was introduced, creating a new working platform for the next mining cycle. This systematic approach allowed for selective extraction, maximizing recovery of the valuable Copper while ensuring operational safety and efficiency.
Storage areas underground are typically integrated into the mining cycle. After extraction, ore was crushed within the mine and then transported to surface leaching yards. Given the “cut-and-fill†method, excavated areas were often backfilled with waste material after ore removal, contributing to ground stability. While specific storage capacities for raw ore underground are not widely detailed, the efficient flow of material from extraction to surface processing implied a well-managed system for temporary holding and transport within the mine’s extensive network of tunnels. A significant challenge for underground operations at Milpillas was water management, as the mine historically faced issues with flooding due to groundwater infiltration. Efficient pumping systems were crucial to dewater the mine and ensure safe and continuous operations. Once the ore was extracted, it is brought to the surface for further processing.
Original photos courtesy of Max LomelÃn (Author: silvia)
MILPILLAS UNDERGROUND - STORAGE ZO
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Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
(Author: silvia)Milpillas’ Green Tapestry -
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Minerals in Our Collection (Author: silvia)
Minerals in Our Collection
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Mashamba West Mine, Kolwezi District, Lualaba, Katanga Copper Crescent, Katanga (Shaba), Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire)
(Author: silvia)Mining Films – Kolwezi Mines Empi
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MUCKING, LOADING AND CRUSHING OF BLASTED ORE
The mining process at Milpillas began with the cut-and-fill mining method, ideal for steeply dipping ore bodies. After drilling and blasting, fragmented Copper ore within the underground stopes was scooped up using Load-Haul-Dump (LHD) vehicles, as seen in Photo A. These vehicles efficiently scooped up the broken ore, or “muck,†from the stope floor.
These highly maneuverable LHDs transported the muck over short distances to designated ore passes. These vertical or inclined shafts utilized gravity to move the ore to lower levels of the mine. From there, the muck was transferred to underground crushers for initial size reduction, as seen in Photo B.
Crushing was a fundamental initial processing stage. Large run-of-mine ore, some exceeding a meter in size, first underwent primary crushing in powerful gyratory crushers (Photo C), reducing the ore to a manageable size, typically a few centimeters. Subsequently, secondary and sometimes tertiary crushing stages further decreased the particle size. This meticulous size reduction was crucial for liberating valuable Copper minerals from waste rock and preparing the ore for subsequent grinding and leaching processes, maximizing extraction efficiency.
At Milpillas, the mine utilized a Metso Superior MKIII gyratory crusher (Photo C) as its primary crushing unit. During its lifetime, the crusher underwent several optimization phases to increase the lifespan of wear-prone components, dramatically reducing maintenance downtime from six months to two years. This enhancement led to lower production costs and improved personnel safety. It is interesting to note that the “ball†of the “gyrator†as seen in Photo C was nearly 1.5 meters in diameter, so the whole crusher unit was huge!
After crushing, the ore was transferred onto conveyor belts (Photo D), which transported it to the surface via a hoist shaft, where it then entered the leaching process.
As each horizontal slice of ore was mucked out, the void created was immediately backfilled with a cemented waste material. This backfilling provided vital ground support and created a stable working platform for the subsequent mining cycle of the next slice above, thereby ensuring a continuous and safe mining environment.
Original photos courtesy of Enrique Jimenez (Author: silvia)
MUCKING, LOADING AND CRUSHING OF B
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Muscovite and Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
16 cm x 14 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Muscovite and Quartz
Minas da -
Native Copper
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
10 cm x 5 cm x 2 cm (Author: silvia)Native Copper
Milpillas Mine, -
Native Copper
Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Municipio Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
10 cm x 5 cm x 2 cm (Author: silvia)Native Copper
Milpillas Mine, -
ON THE ROAD TO THE MILPILLAS MINE
LOCATION
The Milpillas Copper Mine, also known as La Parreña Mine, is located in the Santa Cruz Municipality of Sonora. Sonora is a large state located in northwestern Mexico. It borders the U.S. states of Arizona and New Mexico to the north, the Mexican states of Baja California to the west, Chihuahua to the east, and Sinaloa to the south. Its western edge lies along the Gulf of California (Sea of Cortez). Much of the state is covered by the Sonoran Desert.
The Milpillas Copper Mine is located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of the US-Mexico border, positioning it as an integral part of a larger, cross-border mining region deeply connected to Arizona’s long-standing mining industry. Specifically, it lies about 60 kilometers (37 miles) southwest of Bisbee, Arizona, a town renowned for its Copper mining history. Tucson, a significant city in Southern Arizona, is roughly 188 kilometers (117 miles) to the north-northwest.
Closer to home, the Milpillas mine is situated about 20 kilometers northwest of Cananea, a significant Mexican mining center with a population of 30,000. Cananea’s economy heavily relies on the large Buena Vista del Cobre mine. The closest settlement to the Milpillas Mine (La Parreña) is the small village of Milpillas, with just over 170 residents. Other nearby communities, such as Cuitaca and Vicente Guerrero, underscore the area’s rural and mining-focused character. Access to the Milpillas site from Cananea involves navigating a mix of paved, secondary, and unpaved mining roads.
BRIEF HISTORY
The Milpillas Mine in Sonora, Mexico, discovered in 1978, faced an uphill battle for development. For decades, it lay dormant, hampered by low Copper prices and significant geological hurdles, most notably being buried beneath 250 meters of water-saturated alluvium. However, extensive exploration efforts by Minera Cuicuilco and Industrias Peñoles between the 1980s and 2001 ultimately confirmed substantial high-grade Copper reserves.
Underground mining operations for Copper finally began in 2006. Milpillas quickly gained fame not just for its Copper, but also for its world-class mineral specimens, particularly the striking "electric blue" Azurite crystals, Malachite, and Cuprite found in its supergene enrichment zones. Despite its geological riches, operations were indefinitely suspended in 2020 due to high costs and falling Copper prices. Fortunately, mining activities resumed in June 2022 and are ongoing.
Geological Setting and Mineralization
The Milpillas mine is discreetly situated within the Cuitaca Graben, a prominent north-south trending extensional basin within Sonora’s Basin and Range province. The valuable Copper deposit was initially concealed beneath younger layers of Tertiary gravels and Quaternary alluvium. The underlying geology primarily consists of volcaniclastic rocks from the Laramide Mesa Formation and older Jurassic Henrietta Formation, which have been intruded by monzonitic to quartz monzonitic porphyry stocks. High-grade supergene enrichment, a process that generated the mine’s renowned Azurite, Malachite, and other secondary Copper minerals, occurred within these host rocks at depths ranging from 150 to 750 meters below the surface.
Climate, Flora, and Fauna
Milpillas experiences Sonora’s characteristic arid to semi-arid climate, set within a Basin and Range topography of alternating mountain ranges and expansive valleys. While higher elevations near Cananea support scattered pine-oak forests, Milpillas’ immediate vicinity is a typical desert environment at lower elevations. The flora is well-adapted to drought, including various cacti (such as nopal and barrel cactus), mesquite trees, creosote bush, and resilient desert grasses and shrubs. The fauna, equally suited to these conditions, includes coyotes, diverse rodents, and numerous reptile species, such as snakes and lizards. (Author: silvia)
ON THE ROAD TO THE MILPILLAS MINE
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Processing El Sherana Uranium ore at moline
Shown is a photo of a worker ‘settling’ the Uranium ore concentrate into an appropriate steel container in a well-ventilated area. United Uranium N.L., Moline, Northern Territory, 1963. (Photo courtesy of J. Taylor)
The light colour of the product shown in the photo is indicative of Ammonium Uranyl Carbonate (AUC), commonly known as yellow-cake. An alternative compound supplied to the Nuclear Energy Industry is called AUD which is an abbreviation for Ammonium Diuranate, (NH4)2U2O7. AUD is much darker in colour than AUC with a greenish brown hue. For a detailed discussion on the solvent extraction of Uranium from Uranium ores see Ullmann’s Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry, 40 Volume Set, 7th Edition, Section U, Uranium, Uranium Alloys, and Uranium Compounds; ISBN: 978-3-527-32943-4. (Author: silvia)
Processing El Sherana Uranium ore
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Pyrite on Hematite
Rio Mine (Rio Marina Mine), Valle Giove stope, Rio Marina, Elba Island, Livorno Province, Tuscany, Italy
14 cm x 12 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrite on Hematite
Rio Mine (R -
Pyrite on Hematite
Rio Mine (Rio Marina Mine), Valle Giove stope, Rio Marina, Elba Island, Livorno Province, Tuscany, Italy
14 cm x 12 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrite on Hematite
Rio Mine (R -
Pyrite on Hematite
Rio Mine (Rio Marina Mine), Valle Giove stope, Rio Marina, Elba Island, Livorno Province, Tuscany, Italy
14 cm x 12 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrite on Hematite
Rio Mine (R -
Pyrite on Hematite
Rio Mine (Rio Marina Mine), Valle Giove stope, Rio Marina, Elba Island, Livorno Province, Tuscany, Italy
14 cm x 12 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrite on Hematite
Rio Mine (R -
Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Siderite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 4 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Siderite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portuga -
Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Siderite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 4 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Siderite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portuga -
Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Siderite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
6 cm x 4 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, Siderite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portuga -
Pyrite, Quartz
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
160 mm x 90 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Pyrite, Quartz
Boldut Mine, Ca -
Pyrite, Quartz
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
160 mm x 90 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Pyrite, Quartz
Boldut Mine, Ca -
Pyrite
Huanzala Mine, Huallanca District, Dos de Mayo Province, Huánuco Department, Peru
22 cm x 18 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrite
Huanzala Mine, Huallanc -
Pyrite
Huanzala Mine, Huallanca District, Dos de Mayo Province, Huánuco Department, Peru
22 cm x 18 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrite
Huanzala Mine, Huallanc -
Pyrite
Sparta, Randolph County, Illinois, USA
110 mm x 105 mm x 8 mm (Author: silvia)Pyrite
Sparta, Randolph County -
Pyrite
Sparta, Randolph County, Illinois, USA
110 mm x 105 mm x 8 mm (Author: silvia)Pyrite
Sparta, Randolph County -
Pyrite
Sparta, Randolph County, Illinois, USA
110 mm x 105 mm x 8 mm (Author: silvia)Pyrite
Sparta, Randolph County -
Pyrite
Sparta, Randolph County, Illinois, USA
110 mm x 105 mm x 8 mm (Author: silvia)Pyrite
Sparta, Randolph County -
Pyrrhotite, Sphalerite, Quartz
Dalnegorsk, Dalnegorsk Urban District, Primorsky Krai, Russia
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrrhotite, Sphalerite, Quartz
Dalnegorsk, Dalnegorsk Urban District, Primorsky Krai, Russi -
Pyrrhotite, Sphalerite, Quartz
Dalnegorsk, Dalnegorsk Urban District, Primorsky Krai, Russia
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrrhotite, Sphalerite, Quartz
Dalnegorsk, Dalnegorsk Urban District, Primorsky Krai, Russi -
Pyrrhotite, Sphalerite, Quartz
Dalnegorsk, Dalnegorsk Urban District, Primorsky Krai, Russia
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrrhotite, Sphalerite, Quartz
Dalnegorsk, Dalnegorsk Urban District, Primorsky Krai, Russi -
Pyrrhotite, Sphalerite, Quartz
Dalnegorsk, Dalnegorsk Urban District, Primorsky Krai, Russia
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrrhotite, Sphalerite, Quartz
Dalnegorsk, Dalnegorsk Urban District, Primorsky Krai, Russi -
Pyrrhotite, Sphalerite, Quartz
Dalnegorsk, Dalnegorsk Urban District, Primorsky Krai, Russia
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Pyrrhotite, Sphalerite, Quartz
Dalnegorsk, Dalnegorsk Urban District, Primorsky Krai, Russi -
Quartz, Arsenopyrite and Chlorite (Group)
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
22 cm x 16 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Quartz, Arsenopyrite and Chlorite (Group)
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Cent -
Quartz, Arsenopyrite and Chlorite (Group)
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
22 cm x 16 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Quartz, Arsenopyrite and Chlorite (Group)
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Cent -
Quartz, Chlorite (Group)
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
22 cm x 16 cm x 9 cm (Author: silvia)Quartz, Chlorite (Group)
Minas -
REFINED COPPER CATHODES
Like most modern Copper mines, Milpillas produced large, high-purity "Grade A cathodic Copper" sheets, adhering to LME (London Metal Exchange) and ATSM standards (American Society for Testing and Materials). These sheets commonly measured around 914mm x 914mm (36" x 36") with a thickness of about 12mm (0.5") and bundled in stacks of 50 sheets as shown in photograph. Each sheet weighed approximately 90 kilograms (198 pounds), making them efficient to handle and transport in industrial quantities.
Grade “A†cathodic Copper sheets, are the purest form of commercially traded Copper, typically boasting a minimum purity of 99.99%. The physical properties of Grade “A†cathodic Copper sheets are directly linked to their high purity. They exhibit exceptional electrical conductivity, second only to silver, making them indispensable for electrical wiring, cables, and electronic components. They also possess high thermal conductivity, crucial for heat exchangers and refrigeration. Furthermore, these sheets are highly malleable and ductile, allowing them to be easily shaped, drawn into fine wires, or rolled into thin sheets without fracturing. They are also corrosion-resistant, particularly in atmospheric and aqueous environments, due to the formation of a protective oxide layer. Their uniform rectangular shape and consistent composition simplify industrial handling and processing.
Original photos courtesy of Dagoberto Flores (Author: silvia)
REFINED COPPER CATHODES Like most
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Schorl
Erongo Mountain, Usakos, Erongo Region, Namibia
140 mm x 120 mm x 100 mm (Author: silvia)Schorl
Erongo Mountain, Usakos -
Schorl
Erongo Mountain, Usakos, Erongo Region, Namibia
140 mm x 120 mm x 100 mm (Author: silvia)Schorl
Erongo Mountain, Usakos -
Siderite and Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
11 cm x 8 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite and Dolomite
Minas da -
Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
15 cm x 15 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portuga -
Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
15 cm x 15 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portuga -
Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
8 cm x 5 cm x 2 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portuga -
Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
8 cm x 5 cm x 2 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portuga -
Siderite, Chalcopyrite, Sphalerite, Muscovite, Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
12 cm x 10 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Chalcopyrite, Sphalerite, Muscovite, Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova -
Siderite, Dolomite and Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
11 cm x 8 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Dolomite and Pyrite
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Siderite, Ferberite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
7 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Ferberite
Minas da P -
Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
14 cm x 11 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
14 cm x 11 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
14 cm x 11 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
14 cm x 11 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
14 cm x 11 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
14 cm x 11 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorapatite, Quartz, Arsenopyrite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da -
Siderite, Fluorite, Ferberite, Arsenopyrite, Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
7 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorite, Ferberite, Arsenopyrite, Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da B -
Siderite, Fluorite, Ferberite, Arsenopyrite, Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
7 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorite, Ferberite, Arsenopyrite, Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da B -
Siderite, Fluorite, Ferberite, Arsenopyrite, Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
7 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorite, Ferberite, Arsenopyrite, Quartz
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da B -
Siderite, Fluorite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
(Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorite
Minas da Pa -
Siderite, Fluorite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
7 cm x 6 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Fluorite
Minas da Pa -
Siderite, Pyrite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mine, Oumjrane mining area, Alnif Commune, Tinghir Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
110 mm x 80 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Pyrite, Quartz
Bou N -
Siderite, Pyrite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mine, Oumjrane mining area, Alnif Commune, Tinghir Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
110 mm x 80 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Pyrite, Quartz
Bou N -
Siderite, Pyrite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mine, Oumjrane mining area, Alnif Commune, Tinghir Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
110 mm x 80 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Pyrite, Quartz
Bou N -
Siderite, Pyrite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mine, Oumjrane mining area, Alnif Commune, Tinghir Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
110 mm x 80 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Pyrite, Quartz
Bou N -
Siderite, Pyrite, Quartz
Bou Nahas Mine, Oumjrane mining area, Alnif Commune, Tinghir Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
110 mm x 80 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Pyrite, Quartz
Bou N -
Siderite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
11 cm x 8 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, -
Siderite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
11 cm x 8 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, -
Siderite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
11 cm x 8 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, -
Siderite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
11 cm x 8 cm x 7 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Quartz, Dolomite, Muscovite, Pyrite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, -
Siderite, Sphalerite, Chalcopyrite, Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
12 cm x 10 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Siderite, Sphalerite, Chalcopyrite, Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, C -
Skutterudite
Bouismas Mine, Agdz, Bou Azzer mining district, Zagora Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
140 mm x 110 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Skutterudite
Bouismas Mine, Ag -
Skutterudite
Bouismas Mine, Agdz, Bou Azzer mining district, Zagora Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
140 mm x 110 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Skutterudite
Bouismas Mine, Ag -
Skutterudite
Bouismas Mine, Agdz, Bou Azzer mining district, Zagora Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
140 mm x 110 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Skutterudite
Bouismas Mine, Ag -
Skutterudite
Bouismas Mine, Agdz, Bou Azzer mining district, Zagora Province, Drâa-Tafilalet Region, Morocco
140 mm x 110 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Skutterudite
Bouismas Mine, Ag -
Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut -
Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut -
Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut -
Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut -
Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut -
Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut -
Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
12 cm x 9 cm x 8 cm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite with Calcite
Boldut -
Sphalerite, Chalcopyrite, Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Portugal
12 cm x 10 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite, Chalcopyrite, Dolomite
Minas da Panasqueira, Aldeia de São Francisco de Assis, Covilhã, Castelo Branco, Cova da Beira, Centro, Por -
Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, USA
160 mm x 160 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, US -
Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, USA
160 mm x 160 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, US -
Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, USA
160 mm x 160 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, US -
Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, USA
160 mm x 160 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, US -
Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, USA
160 mm x 160 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, US -
Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, USA
160 mm x 160 mm x 70 mm (Author: silvia)Sphalerite, Fluorite, Dolomite
Elmwood Mine, Carthage, Central Tennessee Ba-F-Pb-Zn District, Smith County, Tennessee, US -
Sulphur
El Desierto Mine, San Pablo de Napa, Daniel Campos Province, Potosà Department, Bolivia
8 cm x 5 cm x 4 cm (Author: silvia)Sulphur
El Desierto Mine, San -
Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramur -
Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramur -
Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramur -
Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramur -
Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramur -
Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramures, Romania
15 cm x 12 cm x 5 cm (Author: silvia)Tetrahedrite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
Boldut Mine, Cavnic mining area, Cavnic, Maramur -
Tetrahedrite, Sphalerite, Pyrite
Mundo Nuevo mining area, Mundo Nuevo, Huamachuco, Sánchez Carrión Province, La Libertad Department, Peru
14 cm x 10 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Tetrahedrite, Sphalerite, Pyrite
Mundo Nuevo mining area, Mundo Nuevo, Huamachuco, Sánchez Carrión Province, La Libertad Department, P -
Tetrahedrite, Sphalerite, Pyrite
Mundo Nuevo mining area, Mundo Nuevo, Huamachuco, Sánchez Carrión Province, La Libertad Department, Peru
14 cm x 10 cm x 6 cm (Author: silvia)Tetrahedrite, Sphalerite, Pyrite
Mundo Nuevo mining area, Mundo Nuevo, Huamachuco, Sánchez Carrión Province, La Libertad Department, P -
Uraninite at the AMNH – The American Connection
Included for comparison is a photograph of what might be the third largest Uraninite specimen to be publically exhibited in recorded history. The specimen weighed just over 60 kilograms and consisted of an inner core of Uraninite covered in a ‘deliciously’ thick layer of Schoepite. It was exhibited for many years at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). In the photograph Dr. Brian H. Mason (1917-2009) Curator of the Department of Physical Geology and Mineralogy at the Museum (1953-1965) can be seen measuring the radiation from the superb specimen. The specimen was donated to the AMNH in 1955 by Vernon J. Pick and it came from the Pick’s Delta Mine, San Rafael Swell Mining District, Emery County, Utah, USA. What a fine specimen to have in a private collection – the mineralogical stories it could tell and the secrets it could reveal – truly amazing and absolutely beautiful!
I think some folks might find the following piece of historical trivia interesting. Dr. Mason was an expert on meteorites and was the first scientist to suggest that some meteorites found in Antarctica were in fact moon rocks. Between 1962 and 1965 Dr. Mason took part in several Australian-American expeditions to the clay pans in central South Australia in search of Australites (Tektites). The Australian team was led by R.O Chalmers, Curator of Minerals at the Australian Museum and the man largely responsibility for the acquisition of the fantastic specimen of Uraninite from El Sherana. Dr. Mason also had two minerals named in his honour, Brianite a Sodium-Calcium-Magnesium phosphate mineral (Na2CaMg(PO4)2) and Stenhuggarite a rare Calcium-Iron-Antimony mineral (CaFeAs2SbO7). The mineral name Stenhuggarite is a clever use of the Swedish word Stenhuggare for stonemason honouring Dr. Mason’s work as the proverbial stone man. Asteroid 12926 Brianmason is also named in his honor. In 1965 he became Curator of Meteorites in the Department of Mineral Sciences at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, retiring in 1984. (Photo courtesy of B. Kramer). (Author: silvia)
Uraninite at the AMNH – The Americ
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Uraninite being loaded
El Sherana yielded the largest single piece of Uraninite ever produced in the world. It weighed 850 kilograms (1,856 pounds). It was recovered at the El Sherana mine in May 1956. The specimen was purchased by the Australian Atomic Energy Commission for exhibition in Sydney. In the photo the specimen has been hoisted with the aid of a portable crane for loading into a suitable transport vehicle. (Original photo courtesy of F. Jones) (Author: silvia)
Uraninite being loaded El Sherana
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Uranium Specimens in storage at the AMNH
On the right is a 60 kg specimen of Uraninite with Schoepite from Pick’s Delta Mine, San Rafael Swell Mining District, Emery County, Utah, USA. It is the same specimen shown in the earlier picture which featured Dr. Brian H. Mason. Just look again at that deliciously thick layer of Schoepite with some Uraninite just visible in the lower right hand corner – superb!
On the left is a 15 kg specimen of Uraninite with Schoepite from the Lookout No. 22 claim, Marshall Pass, Saguache County, Colorado, USA. Both specimens are now in storage at the AMNH (Photo courtesy of AMNH) (Author: silvia)
Uranium Specimens in storage at th
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XRD OF GREEN CRYSTALS.jpg (Author: silvia)
XRD OF GREEN CRYSTALS.jpg
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El Sherana Mine, South Alligator River, West Arnhem Region, Northern Territory, Australia
(Author: silvia)_
El Sherana Mine, South Allig
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