Fluorapophyllite with Galena

This specimen is Fluorapophyllite with Galena from the Zinc Corporation Mine, Broken Hill, New South Wales, Australia, measuring 76 x 48 x 52 mm and weighing 233 g. It is drawn from the combined David Vince Collection and Ruth Coulsell Collection. Fluorapophyllite belongs to the Apophyllite group of phyllosilicates, typically forming glassy, pseudo-cubic crystals with a vitreous to pearly lustre. Galena, lead sulphide, is the principal lead ore mineral at Broken Hill. The occurrence of Fluorapophyllite directly with Galena reflects the range of accessory and secondary mineralisation recorded within the Zinc Corporation Mine, one of the historically significant individual workings of the broader Broken Hill field, alongside the orebody's better-known primary sulphide ore. At 76 x 48 x 52 mm and 233 g, the specimen has good cabinet presence. Fluorapophyllite crystals can be sensitive to knocks given their glassy habit, so a secure, low-traffic display position is recommended. The specimen carries a double provenance, recorded from both the David Vince Collection and the Ruth Coulsell Collection.