Polished Schalenblende from Pomorzany Mine, Olkusz, Poland

Polished Classic: Contrasting Schalenblende from Pomorzany, Poland

This fascinating cabinet specimen represents a classic European mineral association from a now-historic locality: typical schalenblende from Olkusz, Pomorzany, Poland. The specimen consists of a complex colloform mixture of several sulfide minerals. Fine alternating layers and rhythmic banding reveal galena, pyrite and marcasite, as well as sphalerite and wurtzite. This distinctive structure documents the complex mineral-forming processes within the historic Olkusz lead-zinc deposit.

Polished Texture and Distinctive Banding

The front of this 149 g specimen has been carefully polished. This preparation brings out the metallic gold- and silver-colored layers in strong contrast with the brown sphalerite-rich bands. Measuring 8.5 × 6.5 × 0.6 cm, this flat cabinet specimen is particularly well suited to a systematic mineral collection. The reverse side remains in its natural condition, allowing both the internal banding and the original surface of the specimen to be examined. A representative reference specimen from the Pomorzany Mine, which ceased operation in 2020.