Sphalerite (Ruby Jack)- Joplin, Tri-State District, Missouri, USA

Sphalerite (Ruby Jack)
Joplin, Tri-State District, Missouri, USA
Dimensions: 3.9 x 3.7 x 2.5 cm

A classic vintage specimen of Ruby Sphalerite, historically known as “Ruby Jack,” from Joplin, Missouri, in the famous Tri-State Mining District. The specimen is densely covered with sharply formed, highly lustrous sphalerite crystals appearing nearly black in reflected light, while thinner crystal edges and portions reveal warm honey-amber to reddish-brown translucency when illuminated.

Ruby Jack is the traditional name given to the red to reddish-brown sphalerite historically mined from the Joplin district. These zinc-rich deposits made southwestern Missouri one of America's most important historic lead-zinc mining regions. Fine Joplin sphalerites are particularly prized for their brilliant luster, complex crystal forms, and flashes of rich red or amber coloration.

This specimen retains its original vintage collection label, catalog no. 525, identifying it simply as “Ruby Sphalerite – Joplin, Missouri.”