Forked Gypsum Crystal Group from Neuenhain, Hesse, Germany

This gypsum specimen comes from a former lignite open-pit mine near Neuenhain in the Borken lignite mining district of northern Hesse, Germany. An approximately 6 cm long main crystal is accompanied by several smaller gypsum crystals growing along its sides.

At one end, the main crystal shows a forked or divided termination. Two partial crystals develop from the same crystal body. Additional small gypsum crystals occur along the sides, where they are partly intergrown into loose groups.

The crystals are colorless to white and locally translucent. Their surfaces show a vitreous to weakly pearly luster. Measuring 6.0 × 3.5 × 2.0 cm, the piece belongs to the small cabinet specimen size category.

Gypsum from the Former Borken Lignite Mining District

Numerous gypsum crystals and crystal groups were recovered from the Borken lignite mining district during active mining. Gypsum from the area occurs in various habits, including tabular, prismatic, fan-shaped, and branching forms.

The crystals formed within clay-rich and sandy sediments of the lignite deposits. Mineral-bearing pore waters enabled gypsum to form in open spaces and along bedding and fracture surfaces.

The former open-pit mine is now closed and is no longer accessible as a regular mineral locality. The forked termination of the main crystal, the smaller side crystals, and the regional provenance make this specimen a characteristic example from the lignite mining history of northern Hesse.