Pyrargyrite with Galena

This specimen is Pyrargyrite with Galena from the Junction Mine, Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia, measuring 40 x 32 x 20 mm and weighing 85 g. It is recorded with the David Vince Collection. Pyrargyrite, a silver antimony sulphosalt, is one of the "ruby silver" minerals prized by collectors for its deep red colour and adamantine lustre, and it typically occurs within silver-bearing sulphide assemblages alongside Galena, the primary lead ore mineral. Broken Hill's orebody is best known for lead, zinc and silver together, and the Junction Mine's association of Pyrargyrite directly with Galena reflects the silver-rich character of the primary sulphide mineralisation at this part of the field. At 40 x 32 x 20 mm, the specimen is a compact piece that rewards close inspection, as ruby silver minerals are typically found in small crystals and are a genuine highlight when present. Pyrargyrite is sensitive to prolonged light exposure, which can darken its colour over time, so a display position away from direct light is recommended. The specimen's documented provenance is the David Vince Collection.