Beryl and Cassiterite

This mining site was initially discovered in 1846. The mining operations at this site included both surface and underground workings, with one known shaft. The subsurface depth of the mine reaches a maximum of 48 meters (156 feet). The locality has been closed for many years.  This specimens comprised of bizarrely formed opaque beryl on which rets a small cluster of cassiterites. Found by Ron Tucker in 1978. Ex George Loud.

Locality: Irish Creek Tin Mine, Vesuvius, Rockbridge County, Virginia

Composition: berylium aluminum silicate and tin oxide