1.9" Yellow-Green Botryoidal Pyromorphite - Ojuela Mine, Mexico

Pyromorphite is a mineral species composed of lead chlorophosphate with the chemical formula Pb5(PO4)3Cl. It sometimes occurs in sufficient abundance to be mined as a lead ore. It forms small, hexagonal crystals ranging from dark green to yellow and orange.

The lead in pyromorphite can be harmful if absorbed into the bloodstream by inhalation or ingestion. The crystals won't pose a health hazard just sitting on a shelf, but we recommend washing your hands after handling.

Ojuela is not one mine but a complex of multiple mines in the same general area, located just northwest of Mapimi, Mexico. It was established in 1598 after the discovery of an old abandoned silver and gold mine. As mineral production increased and the mineral potential was confirmed, the town (Ojuela settlement) adjacent to the mine, along with the city of Mapimi, began to grow as well. The mining settlement was such a success that it contained a post office, warehouses, stores, saloons, a church, and housing for the miners. Once minerals were collected, they were processed in Mapimi, which also played a role in the rapid development of the city. Around the start of the 20th century, most of the mineral deposits were exhausted, resulting in the abandonment of the mines and settlement.

The mine is well known by mineral collectors for its aresenate minerals and a variety of other mineral species: approximately 117 have been identified from the area. Some of the most popular minerals include adamite, austinite, hemimorphite, scorodite, platternite, aurichalcite, rosasite, calcite, wulfenite, mimetite, iridescent goethite, and fluorite.