Ilmenite is a very uncommon mineral in the Franklin Mining District, but it was locally abundant in calcite veins in camptonite dikes at the Bukwheat Mine (Buckwheat Pit). This specimen has been etched from such a vein. It is a very good example for Franklin. (Note: The "Buckwheat Pit" is simply one of many named openings in the Franklin orebody - collectively the "Franklin Mine".)

The first pair of photos (FOV 2.8 x 2.25 mm) shows one of the larger crystals – ca 1.9 mm. The ilmenite sits on tiny albite crystals with yellow-orange sphalerite. (Some sources claim titanite. Whichever they are, the crystals are tiny and not well formed.)

The second pair of photos (FOV 2.3 x 3.4 mm) is another view of the same crystal plus a  smaller one.

The next pair of photos (FOV 2.5 x 3.5 mm) is a broader view showing other crystals.

An even broader view (ca 10 x 13 mm) is shown in the fourth pair of photos.

Single item shipping weight is 3.0 oz (84 g). For shipments outside the USA, up to a total weight < 8 oz (225g), this can be combined with items from this or other auctions for the same postage.

Within the USA, postage for total weights up to 13 oz ranges from $4.25 to $6.50 (including packing etc) regardless of destination. Above 13 oz, I will use “own box” Priority Mail. The rate, including packing, varies by destination from $7.25 to $9.50.

See my updated “Shipping Policy” for details