5.1" Fibrous Aurichalcite, Hemimorphite, & Calcite Association -Mexico

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 identified). Some of the most popular minerals include adamite, austinite, hemimorphite, scorodite, platternite, aurichalcite, rosasite, calcite, wulfenite, mimetite, iridescent goethite and fluorite.

Aurichalcite is a secondary mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of copper and zinc ore deposits. It has the chemical formula (Zn,Cu)5(CO3)2(OH)6 and often forms as radiating acicular blue-green crystals and linings along cavity walls.