This specimen is from Broken Hill, NSW. Galena is a natural mineral form of lead sulphide and is often found associated with sphalerite, calcite, and fluorite. Galena is an important lead ore mineral, and, in some regions, it is also an important mineral associated with silver ore. Sphalerite is a sulphide mineral that is the main ore of zinc. Rhodonite is an uncommon mineral once used as an ore of manganese in India, however today the scarcity and fragility of the crystals mean it is primarily used as lapidary materials or mineral specimens. In 1883, Charles Rasp who was a boundary rider at the time, discovered what he thought were deposits of tin but were in fact samples of silver and lead. He and six others went on to set up the first mining company in Broken Hill (BHP). The ore body became the largest and richest of its kind in the world mining ore worth more than 42,000 pounds in its first year. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. Galena contains lead and silver, Sphalerite contains zinc. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A hand-sized piece of Sphalerite and Galena with Rhodonite crystalsburke museum, beechworth, geological, geological specimen, galena, rhodonite, sphalerite, silver ore, manganese, lead sulphide, lead ore, zinc ore, lapidary, mineral specimen, broken hill, nsw

This specimen was donated in 1868 by Alfred Selwyn. Olivine is typically found in basic and ultra-basic igneous rocks around the world, in a variety of colours including yellowish green, olive green, greenish black and reddish brown with a transparent to translucent diaphaneity. The luster of the specimen is vitreous, the luminescence non-fluorescent and when fractured the mineral is very brittle producing small, conchoidal fragments. Chromian diopside is normally found in small sizes as the larger the size of the mineral the darker the colour is, almost black rather than green. Chromium is the element that gives chromian diopside and emeralds their rich green colour. Diopside is found across the world in multiple colours however gem-quality chromian diopside is mined in Siberia, Russia and prominent within the jewellery industry as a more affordable substitute to emeralds. Chromium-bearing diopside has been located across Australia. Chromium-bearing Diopside is located across the world found in North America, parts of South America, and across Australia, Africa, Europe and Asia. Chromium-bearing Diopside is mined in Siberia, Russia and is sold as a commercial substitute for emeralds. The stone is often turned into jewellery. This item is one of many geological and mineral specimens that constitute a broader collection obtained from various regions across Australia (as well as some international locales) and generously contributed to the Burke Museum between 1868 and 1880. A significant portion of these specimens originated from Victoria and were acquired as a result of the Geological Survey of Victoria, initiated in 1852 during the Gold Rush era. The primary objective of this survey was to investigate and chart the geological characteristics of Victoria. The procurement of geological specimens played a vital role in advancing our comprehension of the Earth's scientific composition and was instrumental in supporting research and educational institutions throughout Australia, including the Burke Museum, in their efforts to foster further exploration and study. A solid mineral specimen in shades of green, grey and brownburke museum, beechworth, geological, geological specimen

This specimen was recovered from Broken Hill, NSW. It was given the name Mangan Hedenbergite in 1819 by Jöns Jakob Berzelius in honor of Mr. Anders Ludvig of Hedenberg who was the first to define hedenbergite as a mineral. Hedenbergite, belongs in the pyroxene group having a monoclinic crystal system. The mineral is extremely rarely found as a pure substance. Mangan Hedenbergite is a manganese bearing variety of Hedenbergite. Manganese is the world’s fourth most used mineral after iron, aluminium, and copper primarily because it has no satisfactory substitute in its major applications. Globally, the steel industry is the primary user of manganese metal, utilizing it as an alloy to enhance the strength and workability of steel and in the manufacture of tin cans. Manganese is a key component of certain widely used aluminium alloys and, in oxide form, dry cell batteries used in electric vehicles. These batteries are in high demand. Another potential use for manganese may as an additive to help coat and protect a car’s engine. Manganese is also used for non-metallurgical purposes such as plant fertilizers, animal feed, and colorants for bricks. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A hand-sized mineral specimen in shades of silver and blackmanganese, open cut mine, manganese ore processing, bell bay, tasmania, northern territory, steel industry, zinc-carbon batteries, alkaline batteries, tin cans

This specimen is a copper-carbonate malachite mineral. It is often found as crystalline aggregates or crusts, which have a banded agate-like appearance while also commonly found as botryoidal clusters of radiating crystals. Malachite is often bright green in colour, with dark green and blackish blooms or stripes/bands throughout the mineral. This particular specimen was recovered from the Burra Burra Copper Mine located Burra, South Australia. By the 1860's, South Australia was known as the "Copper Kingdom" due to its large amount of copper mines and huge success in the copper mining industry. Burra Burra was no exception to this phenomena, as this mining company was greatly famous and successful, being nicknamed the "Monster Mine". It was first established in 1848 and was the largest metal mine in Australia up until 1860. This specimen is significant as it highlights the historic use and value of malachite and the rarity of the mineral. Malachite is a rare gemstone which has been used in various ways historically. It has been cut and sculpted into beads for jewellery use as its rich colour and distinct yet unique patterns have made it a well sought after gemstone. Its' continued use over time only heightens the value and significance of this mineral.A hand-sized solid copper-carbonate hydroxide mineral specimen in shades of blue, green and copper tones throughout.MALACHITE / (Copper carbonite) / Locality: Burra, South Aust. | Malachite / Burra Burra / South Australia / (good specimen) / needs a wash / BBburke museum, burke museum collection, beechworth museum, beechworth, geological specimen, geological, mineral, mineraology, copper carbonate, malachite, burra burra mine, copper mining

There are 17 opal fields in Australia. This opal bearing stone was found in Lightning Ridge, NSW over what is known as the Great Australian Basin. This basin was formed and covers an area of 1.7 million square kilometers in eastern Australia in the Cretaceous period. This basin used to contain an inland sea, which provided an environment where silcrete eventually formed when water levels changed. This eventually seeped into other structures, and eventually hardened and formed opal. Lightning Ridge has a population of around 2000 people, with about 80 000 visitors every year. It is a historic mining town, and is known for its deposits of a rare black opal. Mining started in the area in the late 1800s, early 1900s when the black opal was discovered. This opal-bearing stone is of social and historical significance. It is from Lightning Ridge, which is well-known for being a large producer of opal stones, most famously black opal. The history of the period dates back to 140 million years, with the discovery of black opal in the early 1900s causing interest in the area. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.***A palm-sized solid mineral specimen in shades of beige and light orange*** silica based? burke museum, beechworth, geological, geological specimen, opal, opal fields, australia, lightning ridge, new south wales, great australian basin, cretaceous, silcrete, black opal, mining

Native Sulphur in its solid form is a yellow crystalline mineral that forms near volcanic vents and fumaroles where it is the solid form of hot gases. It is also frequently found in the subsurface as a by-product of sulphide ore mineralization. In all its forms, sulphur is one of the most commonly occurring minerals on the planet, especially in natural gases, and is key to the make-up of a range of other minerals. It is essential to continuing life on earth, and was used in ancient societies as part of medical care, religious rites, and entertainment, and was key to the invention of gunpowder by the Chinese. Native Sulphur in its solid form is a yellow crystalline mineral that forms near volcanic vents and fumaroles where it is the solid form of hot gases. It is also frequently found in the subsurface as a by-product of sulphide ore mineralization. In all its forms, sulphur is one of the most commonly occurring minerals on the planet, especially in natural gases, and is key to the make-up of a range of other minerals. It is essential to continuing life on earth and was used in ancient societies as part of medical care, religious rites, and entertainment, and was key to the invention of gunpowder by the Chinese. The exact site of extraction for this specimen is unknown, but it was probably collected in New Zealand in the 1850s. Sulphur is significant both for its historical and current uses, and for its nature as one of the most abundant minerals on the planet. Sulphur's importance comes both from its abundance and its role in ensuring survival, creating other minerals, and daily human life. This specimen is significant as representative of sulphur's solid properties. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A solid, small, crystalline mineral specimen that is largely bright yellow, with some darker spotting. geological specimen, geology, geology collection, burke museum, beechworth, sulphur, native sulphur, new zealand, native sulphur specimen, sulphur specimen

Laterite refers to both a rock and a soil type that is rich in clay, as well as Iron and Aluminium. It is created during a process that is called laterization, where high heat and seasonal heavy rainfall cause there to be wet and dry periods, which over time hardens the soil into rock. Because of this, most laterite is formed between tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. The iron oxide in laterite is what gives it it’s orange-red colouring. The largest religious complex in the world, Angkor Wat in Cambodia, is partially constructed of laterite, particularly its foundations, as laterite is porous and allows rainwater to drain. This specimen of laterite was collected from the Democratic Republic of Congo while it was colonised by Belgium in the 19th century. Laterite forms in many parts of the world, particularly between the tropics. It is used both for ore and as a building material, and comparing specimens from different parts of the world allows us to document the different compositions that this mineral can have when formed at different locations. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.a palm-sized solid iron-aluminium oxide mineral specimen in shades of brown, orange and greyburke museum, beechworth, geological, geological specimen, laterite, laterite specimen, geology

Amazonite is classed as a Tectosilicate and is part of the Feldspar group of minerals. Amazonite forms in a triclinic crystal structure and its chemical formula is K(AlSi3O8). In appearance, Amazonite can range from shades of green to green blue to blue, and often with white streaks or veining. The greenish colour is believed to come from the small amount of lead contained in its composition. Amazonite is named after the Amazon River due to its colour and similarities to another rock found along the riverbanks, although Amazonite is not actually found at or near the Amazon. Although less commonly used in jewellery today, Amazonite has been mined and used by humans for thousands of years and Amazonite jewellery from at least 2000BCE have been discovered in North Africa. Amazonite is found in many locations around the world including Brazil, Peru, Ethiopia, Canada, Russia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Pakistan, China, Madagascar, and the United States of America. This specimen most probably comes from the U.S.A., Amazonite is found in several US states particularly in Colorado, Virginia, Pennsylvania. This specimen is of both scientific and historic significance as a striking blue green example of Amazonite mined prior to 1868 in the United States of America, most likely from Colorado, Virginia, or Pennsylvania. These three states are all locations of significant Amazonite deposits. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A palm-sized Feldspar mineral specimen from the Tectosilicate class in shades of blue-green with white veining.Existing label: green/blue Feldspar / "amazonite" / possibly USA geological specimen, geology, geology collection, burke museum, beechworth, tectosilicate, amazonite, feldspar, triclinic crystal structure, amazonite usa, amazonite colorado, amazonite virginia, amazonite pennsylvania

Ledger monthly reports from the Registrar to the Ballarat School of Mines Council. Information includes student numbers, new enrolments, financial reports, reports of Council member and staff deaths. 1915 World War One Staff Enlistments. 1916 Advertisement for Teaching Positions 1917 Enlistment of Colin C. Brittain to the 'Miners' and Engineers'. 1919 Pg 75 - Low student numbers due to the influenza pandemic (Spanish Flu) Pg 76 - Ruby Lonie suffering from influenza (Spanish Flu). 1922 * Page 146 Plaster casts from Victoria & Albert Museumplaster casts, letter, letterbook, ballarat school of mines, monthly reports, principals reports, world war one, student involvement in world war one, aboriginal male skeleton, ralph g. moore, robert a. clinton, ralph ingram moore, japanese warship officers visit, c.h. vale, g.d. evans, geoffrey ballantyne tundbridge, w.j. paterson, new guinea, mica smith schola, mica smith scholarship, nolrfolk island pine, primock mineral specimen donation, e. duncan, e.j. mcconnon, j.r. gordon, j.c. molloy, j.c. molloy death, c. fenner, h.h. smith, w.h. collyer, a.f. tweedie, colin brittain, australian mining corp, w.h. clutterbuck, a.l. ronaldson, thomas hurley, j.c. hurley, alan t. perry, wolfrey henry clutterbuck, miss abrams' commercial classes, norman barker, australian flying corps, l.h. vernon, h.c. smith, rowland c. valentine, repatriation department, returned soldiers, t.h. shattock, returned soldiers league, ina smith, john keith, caledonian society, w.g. coates, percival j. ripper, s.h. mayo, fees in arrears, j.b. robinson, bannerman, stenotype machine, influenza, ruby lonie, pharmacy, ballarat, e.g. vawdry, annie a. jones, lancelot austin, l. stg. p. austin, spanish flu, rubie lonie, pandemic

Murray Comrie Collection. This photograph is a black and white copy created from a colour original.Black and white photograph being a copy of an Intercolonial Exhibition certificate, won by Tarnagulla Borough Council for mineral specimenstarnagulla, awards, mining, mineralogy, intercolonial exhibition, borough council

This specimen is a native copper specimen that is metallic. Copper is typically found in the earth's crust and is often found alongside other metals such as gold, zinc, lead and silver which all belong to the same group which is the Copper/Gold group. Copper is most commonly formed from large masses of molten lava rock which has solidified in the earth's crust and over time though different sizes and speeds of crystal growth has turned into large amounts of copper, stored in porphyry copper deposits. Copper has a distinctive colour, yet can sometime appear blue and greenish which is often caused by oxidisation or a mixture of copper and other metals. This specific specimen was recovered from Moonta, South Australia. The Moonta Mining Company was established in 1861, after a Shepard in the area noticed traces of copper. This lead to a rush in the copper mining industry which was relatively young in Australia at the time, making Moonta Mining Company one of the richest in Australia. By the 1860's, South Australia had been nicknamed the "Copper Kingdom" due to its vast amount of Large copper mines and resources. As of 2016, Australia was the second largest producer of Copper internationally, following behind Chile in first place. This copper specimen is significant historically and scientifically as it is such an important metal commonly used throughout the world in various ways. Copper is an invaluable recourse used in daily life, used in most electrical appliances as it is a great conductor of heat and electricity, as well as being soft and malleable, making it easy to bend and mould into delicate sheets and wires. Copper does not corrode and is therefore used in the production of water pipes among countless other significant necessities that are often overlooked in our society. Historically, Copper holds great significance as it was the first metal used by humans. It was discovered roughly 9000 years ago and was utilised by the Neolithic Man who learnt that heating the metal made it more malleable, thus tools and utensils were made which were far superior to the previous stone tools used by humans. This history and its connection to the current and ongoing relationship between humans and copper must be preserved and highlighted as it is integral to the history of all humankind. A small, palm-sized solid native copper mineral specimen with shades of browns, black and rustic tones throughout the specimen.NATIVE (metalic) COPPER / Locality: Moonta, South Australiabeechworth, burke museum, geological specimen, native specimen, geological, mineral, mineralogy, indigo shire, beechworth museum, copper, copper ore

It is not known where this opal originated. Common Opal is formed from silica-rich water entering the earths crust and hardening into a gel of water and silica-spheres, layered through the specimen. Common opal differs from precious opal in colouration and appearance, with precious opal including more colours, and having a translucent or glossy appearance, where common opal shows less colour and is typically opaque. It scores high on the Mohs hardness scale, and is common throughout the world, especially in Australia, where it is far more prevalent than the highly-prized precious opal. Australia is also the highest producer of opals in the modern world. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A solid, silica-based mineral specimen of Common Opal in shades of grey, green, and yellow, with a thick grey vein running through the centre. geological specimen, geology, geology collection, burke museum, beechworth, opal, common opal, gemstone, mining

Ventifacts are sand-blasted rocks that are typically faceted and often display parallel grooves carved by wind-blown sand. They are useful indicators of wind direction and strength in environments such as deserts, mountains, and coastal areas because they are usually not hidden by later sediment, soil or vegetation cover. In Antarctica ventifaction is strongly related to the composition or type of rock. Ventifacts are important because they provide evidence for abraders such as sand, dust or snow and ice crystals, and offer a unique understanding of past wind processes that are effective in the reconstruction of past wind flow conditions and can provides clues to weather and climate changes in the past. Interestingly ventifacts have also been found on the surface of Mars. They were a threat to the NASA rover due to the sharp angles of the facets, created by the Martian wind over the course of millions of years. These Martian ventifacts act like weathervanes for past wind and weather patterns on the red planet in a similar manner to those found on earth.The Geological Survey of Victoria was instigated in response to the Victorian Gold Rush which began around 1851 in the Beechworth, Castlemaine, Daylesford, Bendigo and Ballarat areas. The survey was conducted by Alfred Richard Cecil Selwyn from his arrival in December 1852 until his resignation in 1869and during this time he trained many notable geologists, e.g. Aplin, Wilkinson, Daintree, who went on to other State survey senior positions. This specimen was among those donated to the Burke Museum in 1868.A hand-sized solid mineral specimen in shades of dark and light browns with light lines visible in all configurations and a groove on configuration 2.light lines visible in all configurations and a groove on configuration 2burke museum, beechworth, geological, geological specimen, ventifact, antarctic region, antarctic, alfred richard cecil selwyn, alfred selwyn, wind direction, wind strength, abraders, wind flow, climate change, reconstruction of wind flow conditions, weather change, mars

‘Ropy lava’ is known for its sculptural and layered qualities. It occurs in specific lava flows that are slow moving and slow cooling, allowing for unique formations to be created out of the motion. Ropy Lava is a flow that has a hardened crust with molten material underneath, the tension between these states is what creates its characteristic form. The brown/red hue of the stone is an indication of age, as it is oxidised iron deposits. This rock deposit is thought to be sourced from the area by Talbot, in western Victoria. This area has a rich mineral history and experienced the gold rush in the 1850's. The traditional owners of this area are the Dja Dja Wurrung people.This geological specimen shows the conditions in which the Australian landscape was created as well as provides an indication as to how these events occurred. It is representative of a common natural process that contextualises the formation of Australia with the formation of other landmasses. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.Hand sized specimen in brown/red hues42 / victoria, talbot, lava, ropy, ropy lava, mineral, geological specimen, geological, geological heritage, natural stone, natural history

This specimen was recovered from the Nigretta Falls (previously named the Upper Wannon Falls), Victoria. The falls are fed by the Wannon River that has its head waters in the Grampians mountains. Approx. 10km upstream of the Wannon Falls, Nigretta is a multi-channel segmented cascade of smaller drops and bounces guided by patterns of joints in a much older (Devonian) rhyolitic volcanic rock. Both the Wannon and Nigretta Falls are iconic landscape features, entrenched in the history and identity of the region. These falls are particularly rare as they are the product of volcanic activity, which is unique in the context of the Volcanic Plain of Victoria. Waterfalls of this capacity are generally associated with the Uplands areas of Victoria, rather than the edges of the Volcanic Plain. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. A solid, dark grey mineral specimen with pale terracotta coloured inclusions. Rhyodacite is a volcanic rock intermediate in composition between dacite and rhyolite. Rhyodacites form from rapid cooling of lava relatively rich in silica and low in alkali metal oxides.GEOLOGICAL SURVEY / R / S 55 FELSTONE PORPHYburke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, beechworth museum, geological, geological specimen, porphyritic rhyodacite, lava, nigretta falls, upper wannon falls, dacite, rhyolite, volcanic geology

Ilvaite has acquired its name from Ilva (Latin for Elba) Island, Greece, where Ilvaite is most commonly found. The geological setting in which Ilvaite occurs is through contact with magnetite, zinc and copper ore deposits, along with contact metamorphic deposits and zeolite zones. llvaite crystallizes in the form of black prismatic crystals and columns . This specimen was retrieved from Broken hill, known as the world's richest and largest zinc-lead ore deposit. Because of Ilvaite's often unaesthetic crystal formations compared to other minerals, Ilvaite is uncommon in most rock collections, particularly specimens that are not well formed, such as this one. Ilvaite is also a member of the Sorosilicate subclass of the silicate minerals, which have an unusual basic unit of Si2O7, making Ilvaite a unique mineral. Given that Ilvaite is not commonly found in Australia, it marks a unique contribution to an Australian collection of minerals. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A solid hand-sized ferrous iron analogue mineral with of black with shades of beige Ilvaite is a brittle, opaque rock formation that has acquired its name from Ilva (Latin for Elba) Island, Greece, where Ilvaite is most commonly found. The geological setting in which Ilvaite occurs is through contact with magnetite, zinc and copper ore deposits, along with contact metamorphic deposits and zeolite zones. llvaite crystallizes in the form of black prismatic crystals and columns rock, mineral, ilvaite, ilvaite specimen

This specimen originated from Mount Lyell on the west coast of Tasmania, where a large group of open cut and underground copper-silver-gold mines began operating in 1883. Between 1893-1994, the Mt Lyell Mining and Railway Company were responsible for operations. The Mt Lyell copper-gold mines produce some excellent crystallised specimens of chalcopyrite and other minerals. The deposits are generally considered to be of Cambrian volcanic origin, but there are indications of Devonian granitic influence on the ores, plus local remobilisation during Devonian deformation. Over 120 million tonnes of ore was produced from several workings, including the main Prince Lyell mine and the North Lyell mine, which was also of great importance. The Mount Lyell mines have a long history of human and environmental disasters, including the 1912 North Lyell fire that killed 42 miners, and two separate incidents in 2013 in which three people lost their lives. The environmental impacts from this complex of mines are extensive, with waste tailings and heavy metal contamination flowing directly into the King and Queen River catchments. In 1954, the eminent Australian historian, Geoffrey Blainey, published 'The Peaks of Lyell' which delves into the history of the 1912 North Mount Lyell Disaster.Chalcopyrite does not contain the most copper in its structure relative to other minerals, but it is the most important copper ore since it can be found in many localities and occurs in a variety of ore types. The brassy-yellow colours in Chalcopyrite mean it is often confused with pyrites and gold, leading to use of the term, "fool's gold." Chalcopyrite has been the primary ore of copper since smelting began five thousand years ago. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.This hand sized solid mineral specimen has shades of brass-yellow with spots of iridescent green-black tarnish. Chalcopyrite is a copper iron sulphide mineral and a major ore of copper common in sulphide veins and disseminated in igneous rocks. Chalcopyrite has a hardness of 3.5-4 on the Mohs Scale. It is a member of the tetragonal crystal system and has metallic lustre and opaque transparency.burke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, beechworth museum, geology, geological specimen, chalcopyrite, copper pyrites, copper mining, tasmanian geology, mount lyell, mount lyell mines, fools gold, mohs scale, crystals, minerals, historical geological collection, victorian geological survey, a.r.c selwyn, gold rush, van diemans land

This particular specimen was recovered from two hundred feet down in the Golden Mile in Kalgoorlie, Western Australia. The Golden Mile, named after the estimated sixty million ounces of gold worth around one hundred billion dollars, was the birthplace of the largest gold rush in Australia almost one hundred and thirty years ago when William Brookman and Samuel Pearce leased the Great Boulder mine. The Golden Mile is also the home of the Super Pit, Australia's most well-known mine.The majority of gold deposits will form as a native metal, however, on occasion, it can form a compound with another element, in this case, sulphur. Therefore, this specimen is a rare example of gold naturally forming into a compound mineral with sulphur. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A small gold-sulphide ore mineral specimen in shades of silver and grey with flecks of gold. Precious metals are often found in Sulphide Ores, as sulphides usually bind to these metals. They are also extremely symmetrical in crystaline form. Gold-Sulphide Ore occurs when gold forms a natural compound with other elements. In this form, gold can be present in one of two ways. It can be fully immersed in the sulphide, or a portion may be partially free. This specimen has minimal gold visible, with only a few flecks being partially visible.burke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, beechworth museum, geological, geological specimen, mineralogy, gold-sulphide ore

Leather bound ledger with hand written details on donations to the Ballarat School of Mines Museum or the Ballarat School of Mines Library. The Ledger was made by J. McHutchison, Bookbinder, paper ruler and Account Book Manufacturer. 267. 07 July 1880 - John Lynch Junior - Smythesdale - Cast of "Golden Age" nugget found at Browns by Co-operative Party - 12 men. Weight 75 oz 12 dwts 12 grs 294. 24 June 1880 - W.H. Shaw - Ballarat - 94 numbers of 'The Engineer'. 295. 28 June 1880 - Rivett Henry Bland - Clunes - Specimen of water pipe from the Port Phillip Consols Mine encrusted with Carbonates of lime and magnesia and sulphate of lime with earthy matter. 418. 17 June 1881 - F. Ratte - Sydney - Catalogue of Rocks, minerals, etc of New Caledonia. 462. 28 September 1881 - Dr Bunce - Ballarat - Concretionary Basalt with Car. Lime and Magnesia. 465. 06 September 1881 - J.J. Sleep (Chairman of the Board) per favor of E.W. Spain, Esq, Manr - Ballarat - Diamond drill core from "Carisbrook Freehold Estate" - cut at a depth of 150 feet. Dedrites from Munster Gully ... 517. 20 January 1882 - William Lester - Ballarat - The Agricultural Teacher 549. 24 March 1882 - C.E. Grainger Manager Ballarat Woollen Mills - Ballarat - Samples of dyed and raw wool and dye material. 600. 04 July 1882 - Henry Sutton - Ballarat - 13th Annual Report of the Aeronautical Society of Great Britain. 1222. 31 October 1884 - Trooper Dowling - Miner's Rest - Owl 1223. 04 November 1884 - W. McKeenan - 3, Adair St, Ballarat - Flying Squirrel. 1259. 16 January 1885 - A.A. Buley - Ballarat - Prospective of Grenville College 1885 1428. 06 October 1885 - Ballarat - Collection of mineral specimens from Silverton (Collected by Mr James Murray). 1442. 20 October 1885 - Ballarat - Specimen of fossil fruits collected by Haddon by Charles Brown. 1682. 28 February 1887 - James Lamb - Ballarat - Copy of the Ballarat Times Newspaper of 3rd December 1854, framed and protected on both sides with glass. 1730. 23 May 1887 - Bella Guerin - Ballarat - Copy of the Victorian Review No 74 December 1885 4786. 27 March 1894 - James Oddie - Ballarat - 3 mineral specimens 4835. 01 August 1896 - P.V> Barnard - Ballarat - {ortion of Mining truck wheel altered to oxide of iron found in the old workings of the Golden Gate Mine at a depth of 200 feet. (4235 is last entry)ballarat school of mines, ballarat school of mines museum, donations, henry sutton, bella guerin

Dendrites are deposits of black minerals, typically manganese oxides that precipitated from water seeping through fractures in fine-grain rocks like a sandstone or limestone. Dendrites are much less regular than plant fossils and lacks vein structures. The manganese cryztallizes through the process called 'supercooling'. Some samples of dendrites occur in volcanic rocks in the Lilydale district, east of Melbourne. Sandstones are made of tiny sand grains that may have been deposited in the sea and later formed together. Most sandstones are made of quartz which are chemically-resistant minerals. This particular specimen was donated by Alfred Selwyn in 1868 as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria. It is connected to the original 1875 catalogue on Geological Specimen with number 189 'Quartz Crystals_Quartz Crystals (two are polished)'Dendrites on sandstones This specimen is an important contribution to the geological history of Victoria, as well as its links to the 1868 Geological Survey of Victoria. This specimen is part of larger collection of significant geological specimens in the Burke Museum that was collected from around the world between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collection as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria 1852-1974. The Geological Survey of Victoria was an organisation founded in response to the Victorian gold rush to explore the geological and mineral resources and to record a detailed map of the state. It was headed by British geologist, Alfred Richard Cecil Selwyn (1824-1902), who was responsible for issuing over 60 geological maps during his 17 years as director. These maps were all hand-drawn and coloured and became the benchmark for accuracy for geological mapping. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. A hand-sized slice of light brown sandstone with dendrites formed from crystallized manganese oxide.Existing label: Not sure what / 'Slica dondrites' / means. / Sample is sandstone and original label / identifies it as from / the Grampians near Stawell. / C. Willman / 15/4/21 Other label: [illegible] / stone [ illegible] / from Grampians Stawell / 1894 /geological specimen, geology, geology collection, burke museum, beechworth, dendrites, sandstones, quartz, lilydale district, geological survey of victoria, grampians, victoria rocks, minerals, rocks, manganese oxides, alfred selwyn

The Donation Book relates to the Ballarat School of Mines Museum which opened in 1872. Very few of these items are still held by Federation University. The Museum was emptied in the 1960s with items being distrubuted to the Ballarat Historical Society, returned to original lenders (ie Pern Collection), of disposed of. Donations to the Ballarat School of Mines include: 34. M. Hamburger, Ballarat - bunsen burner 41. W.H. Shaw, Phoenix Foundry - 81 nos of 'Engineer' 89. Juvenile Industrial Exhibition Association Committee per Joseph Flude - dies used for striking medals awarded to successful exhibits. 165. Ferdinand Von Mueller 172 Ferdinand Von Mueller o hortus siccus 6 197. James Stoddart 203. Edward Gazzard, North Creswick - Model of safety Cage invented and made by donor 218. E. Morey 222. Alfred Lestor 228. J.J. Sleep, Ballarat, patent Lever escarpment Clock (displayed in laboratories) 237. Bernard Smith (Warden) per favor of James M. Bickett - Bust of Mr John Lynch, Smythesdale. (Note: This item is not in the present Federation University Historical Collection) 241. James Oddie, J.P., Ballarat, Copy of 'the Chemist and Druggist' 267. John Lynch Junior, Smythesdale - Cast of "Golden Age" nugget, found at Browns by Co-operative party, 12 men. Weight 75 oz, 12 dwts, 12 grs.(Note: This item is not in the present Federation University Historical Collection) 270. Isaac Davis, Main Road, Ballarat 294. W. H. Shaw, Ballarat - 94 nos of 'The Engineer' 295. Rivett Henry Bland, Clunes - Specimen of water pipe from the Port Phillip Company's mine encrusted with carbonites of lime and magnesium (Note: This item is not in the present Federation University Historical Collection) 299. D.J. Williams, Queenscliff - 1 case shells from Fiji 305. C. Retallack, Ballarat 314. William Henry Shaw, Ballarat - glass case 323. W. Longley, Ballarat - Botanical Specimen (Note: This item is not in the present Federation University Historical Collection) 327. W. H. Angove, Perth 337. J. Cosmo Newbery, B Sc, Melbourne 343. James Hector, M.D., New Zealand 353. R.S. Mitchell, Ballarat - 8 specimens live plants (medicinal) (for the Ballarat School of Mines Garden) 355. W. Magee, Ballarat - Sugar cane plants and seeds (for the Ballarat School of Mines Garden) 363. James Hector, Wellington, new Zealand 371. William Wesley, 28 Essex St, Strand, London - Scientific book circular 380. Jacob Upfold (deceased) per favor of the trustees - bequest of steam engine indicator and belongings (boothe and case) 381. Joseph Mitchell, 22 Macarthur Street, Ballarat - sod of turf cut from Warboy's High Few, County Huntingdon, England, 1872. 394. W.H. Barnard 401. James Orr 418. F. Ratte, Sydney 440. Alfred Mica Smith, Sandhurst (Bendigo), Inaugural Address, delivered to the Bendigo School of Mines Science Society, June 20. 1881 by P.H. Macgillivray, MA, MRCS, FLS, President. (Note: This item is not in the present Federation University Historical Collection) (Note: This item is not in the present Federation University Historical Collection) 446. C. C. Shoppee, Ballarat 462. Dr Bunce, Ballarat 468. James Black, Mining Manager "Kerrit Bureet' 479. J.S. North, Mining Manager No. 2 Queen Co, Black Hill Ballarat. 505. Smith Tibbitts - A block of ancient leaves from the Nigtingbool Estate near Haddon on the Ballarat district from shaft 80 feet deep. (Note: This item is not in the present Federation University Historical Collection) 512. F.W. Niven, Ballarat - "A Handy Book to Tasmania" 522. James Hector, Wellington, New Zealand 549. C.E. Grainger, Manager Ballarat Woollen Mills - samples of dyed and raw wools 600. (4 July 1882) Henry Sutton, Ballarat - 13th annual report of the Aeronautical Society of Great Britain; 2 papers from the Proceedings of the Royal Society, nos 217 and 218- 1882, "One a new electrical storage battery by Henry Sutton, Ballarat, Victoria. 608. H. Glenny J.P., Ballarat - Specimen of Asbestos from Tasmania 610. M.H. Edelmann, Munich, Germany 674. W.H. Shaw, Phoenix Foundry - Steel boring 95 feet long taken from bed-plate of locomotive engine. 675 - H.R. Hancock J.P. pre favour Mr James Pryor, Moonta Mines 676. Baron Ferdinand Von Mueller KCMG, etc, Melbourne 678. E.F.A. Gaunt, Royal Navy, H.M.S. Nelson, per favour Lyde Gaunt - Specimen of manganese ore from the mines - Russell - New Zealand 728. Dr Pinnock, Ballarat 760. Simon Morrison, Ballarat 784. James Shugg, Hamilton - 1 case fossils from Muddy Creek, near Hamilton. (Note: This item is not in the present Federation University Historical Collection) 786. W. Bolam (inspector of Schools), Melbourne - 2 spears and 1 fishing prong Fijian 806. James Oddie, Ballarat 708. Henry G. Hanks, San Francisco 786. W. Bolam (Inspector of Government Schools Melbourne) - 2 spears and one fishing prong Fijian 824. Henrique Gorceixm Onro Preto, Brazil 840. W. Laplau, Ballarat - Gas furnace with a large assortment of fittings, also large gas holder and oil-heating apparatus 854. Robert Borch, Main Road, Ballarat - Improved safety chain (Note: This item is not in the present Federation University Historical Collection) 928. James Oddie 944. James P. Munroe, Registrar, Massachusetts 952. L.E. Cutter per favour of Mr F.J. Martell - Unexploded bomb shell from the Eureka Stockade 957. H. Glenny, Hobart 962. George Hart, Ballarat - eagle 976. Henry Sutton, Ballarat - 1 volume "Plattner on the Blowpipe" 978. J.W. Flatow, 45 Madeline Street, Carlton, Melbourne 984. Charles C Shoppee Ballarat - Copies of ancient coins 989-95 - Specimens from Moonta, South Australia 985. W.H. Wooster BOlwarra - books microscope related 1179. James Oddie - Live hedgehog 1181 C. Crisp, Bacchus Marsh, Portugal Copper Coin, 1785 1248 James Oddie, Solomon Islands - Bow and arrows & Spears 1285. C. Colyer, Smythesdale 1327. John L. McKenna, Smeaton - Fragment of Stone Axe. 1395. Mrs O. Skoglund, Nerrina 1428. Daniel Brophy, Ballarat - Collection of mineral specimen form Silverton (Collected by Mrs James Murray) 1442. Henry Sutton, Ballarat - Specimens of fossil fruits collected at Haddon by Charles Brown. 1444. Mining Department - Underground Mine Workings from Band of Hope and others. 1517. W.H. Wooster, Ballarat 1592. Bishop of Ballarat - Stone Axe and other native items 1669. H. McHaffier, Napoleons - 1 Spanish silver coin 1681. James Oddie, Dunedin 1688. W. Burbridge, Ballarat - Native Tomahawk from Metung 1708. A. Doepel, Ballarat 1712. Marty Guerin, Ballarat 1735. Bella Guerin. M.A., Ballarat - Copy Wide Awake Vol 1 No 7 May 28th 1887 and The Bulletin, March 19th 1887. 1747. Bella Geurin M.A., Ballarat - Copy Wide Awake Vol 1 No 8 June 4 1887 1751. Bella Geurin M.A., Ballarat - Copy Wide Awake Vol 1 No 9 June 11th 1887 1842. Linnean Society, London England - Charter, By Laws, Proceedings, Transactions, Journals 1853. W.J. Corbould, Silverton, NSW - chloride of silver from Pinnacles, Broken Hill, Silverton 1888. W. J. Corbould, Sample of metallic silver from Silverton, NSW 1928. E. Morey, Ballarat - Steam Engine 1937. Henry Sutton A.S.I.E., Ballarat - Plate Electric Machine, chimes and Sportman (number crossed out) 1951. Henry Sutton A.S.I.E., Ballarat - Plate Electric Machine, chimes and Sportman 1981. Harrie Wood (per W.H.B.[Barnard?), Ballarat 1996. W.H. Shaw, Phoenix Foundry - Papers "The Vict Engineer July 1887, May June July August 1888 and others 2014. Harrie Wood, Sydney - Report Department of Mines, 18872027. W.J. Bechervaise - Copy of Book by Baldwin Spencer 2034. A.G. Randall - Native Hatchet 2045. W.H. Corbould, Silverton, Collection of silver ores 2051. Fowler, Tarnagulla - Native Tomahawk 2123-2131. James Oddie, London 2163. Roff. F. Taplier, Sturt Street - Native Tomahawk 2178. Syd. Johnson, Meredith - Native Tomahawk, Greenstone 2184. Mr Tupp for Hall - Native Spear and Club 2292. Emmanuel Steinfeld, Melbourne 2313. A. Atwood, Rowlands Factory, Dana Street 2361. Dr Pinnock, Ballarat - Collection of Living Sponges 2363. P. Curnow, Ballarat - Piece of wood with stone naturally embedded 2364. R. Dowling, Waubra 2875. Mrs C, Flude, Ballarat - Collection of (5) mineral specimens 3460. Joseph Weir, Ballarat - Sample of rolled Annibar 3466. J. Hart, Ballarat - Native Shield - supposed to have been made by King Billy 4784. Mr. O. Woolnaugh, Pleasant Street - Four Native Tomahawks 6469. L. Balhausen, Ballarat 3472. John English, Smeaton - three samples of auriferous wash dirt 3607. Columbia College, New York - Handbook of Information of the Columbia College in the Ciry of New York 1892-3. 3672. L.A. Samuels, Bendigo 3724. P. Paperhagen 3736. The Late Rivett Henry Bland per John Noble Wilson - Collection of mineral specimens and fossils 3752. G.A. Denny, South Africa 3755. J. Carroll, Ballarat - Specimen of Native bread found in Ballarat East. 4765. J. Donnelly, Springs, Bungaree I. Fowler, Coolgardie, Specimen of Gold Bearing Quartz ballarat school of mines, doantions, museum, ballarat school of mines museum, safety cage, botanical garden, materia medica garden, library, bella guerin, james oddie, phoenix foundry, w.h. shaw, john lynch, henry sutton, aboriginal, stone axe, tomahawk, geological specimens, moonta, fedinand krause, oddie collection of minerals, thomas bath, spears, solomon islands, king billy, bows and arrows, ancient coins, birds eggs, snakes

Malachite is typically found as crystalline aggregates or crusts, often banded in appearance, like agates. It is also often found as botryoidal clusters of radiating crystals, and as mammillary aggregates as well. Single crystals and clusters of distinguishable crystals are uncommon, but when found they are typically acicular to prismatic. It is also frequently found as a pseudomorph after Azurite crystals, which are generally more tabular in shape. This particular specimen was recovered from the Burra Burra Copper Mine in Burra, South Australia. Otherwise known as the 'Monster Mine', the Burra Burra Copper Mine was first established in 1848 upon the discovery of copper deposits in 1845. Within a few short years, people from around the world migrated to Burra to lay their claim in the copper economy. By April 1848 the mine was employing over 567 people and supporting a population of 1,500 in the local township. Up until 1860, the mine was the largest metals mine in Australia, producing approximately 50,000 tonnes of copper between 1845 to its closure in 1877. The Burra Burra Mine was also famous for a number of other specimens, including; crystalline azurite, cuprite, and botryoidal and malachite. Malachite is considered a rare gemstone in that the original deposits for the stones have been depleted leaving behind very few sources. In addition, the use of Malachite as gemstones and sculptural materials remains just as popular today as they were throughout history. It is quite common to cut the stone into beads for jewellery. The fact that Malachite has such a rich colour and one that does not fade with time or when exposed to light makes it particularly rare. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. A solid hand-sized copper carbonate hydroxide mineral with shades of blue and light green throughout. burke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, beechworth museum, geological, geological specimen, mineralogy, burra, burra burra mine, south australia, malachite, malachite specimen

Malachite is a green copper carbonate hydroxide mineral and was one of the first ores used to make copper metal. Malachite has been utilised as a gemstone and sculptural material in the past as its distinctive green color does not fade when exposed to light or after long periods of time. Malachite is formed at shallow depths in the ground, in the oxidizing zone above copper deposits. The material has also been used as a pigment for painting throughout history. This particular specimen was recovered from the Burra Burra Copper Mine in Burra, South Australia. Otherwise known as the 'Monster Mine', the Burra Burra Copper Mine was first established in 1848 upon the discovery of copper deposits in 1845. Within a few short years, people from around the world migrated to Burra to lay their claim in the copper economy. By April 1848 the mine was employing over 567 people and supporting a population of 1,500 in the local township. Up until 1860, the mine was the largest metals mine in Australia, producing approximately 50,000 tonnes of copper between 1845 to its closure in 1877. The Burra Burra Mine was also famous for a number of other specimens, including; crystalline azurite, cuprite, and botryoidal and malachite.Malachite is considered a rare gemstone in that the original deposits for the stones have been depleted leaving behind very few sources. In addition, the use of Malachite as gemstones and sculptural materials remains just as popular today as they were throughout history. It is quite common to cut the stone into beads for jewellery. The fact that Malachite has such a rich colour and one that does not fade with time or when exposed to light makes it particularly rare. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. A solid hand-sized copper carbonate hydroxide mineral with shades of yellow, blue, and light green throughout.geological, geological specimen, burke museum, indigo shire, malachite, malachite specimen, burra burra mine, burra, south australia, australian mines, mines, monster mine

Galena Chalcopyrite is the earth's primary ore of lead and is mined from a large number of deposits in many countries. It is also an important source of silver. Galena Chalcopyrite is one of the most abundant and widely distributed sulfide minerals across the world. The mineral is found in igneous and metamorphic rocks in medium- to low-temperature hydrothermal veins. This specific specimen was recovered from the mines in Broken Hill, New South Wales. The mines in Broken Hill were first established after Charles Rasp discovered a large amount of silver-lead-zinc ore-body in the area in 1883. BHP (Broken Hill Proprietary) mining company was then established in 1885 and quickly became the lead in Australia's mining industry after they began excavating and exporting the country's largest amount of lead, silver, and zinc. This feat generated over $100 billion in wealth for the company.Galena Chalcopyrite is signifiant as it represents the catalyst for the rise of Australia's most influential mining companies - BHP. The mineral was one of the first to be mined in the country and after being made into lead, was used for a variety of things such as paint, batteries, ammunition, and plumbing materials before it was known to be harmful to humans. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. A grey, solid hand-sized lead sulfide mineral with a silver metallic luster.burke museum, beechworth, geological, geological specimen, galena, galena chalcopyrite, chalcopyrite, broken hill, bhp, bhp mining, broken hill mine, mine, australia mine, lead, lead mine

Feldspathic arenites are sandstones that contain less than 90% quartz, and more feldspar than unstable lithic fragments, and minor accessory minerals.Feldspathic sandstones are commonly immature or sub-mature.These sandstones occur in association with cratonic or stable shelf settings. Feldspathic sandstones are derived from granitic-type, primary crystalline, rocks. If the sandstone is dominantly plagioclase, then it is igneous in origin Sandstone features prominently in public buildings throughout Victoria. Most of the sandstone used as dimension stone in the State came from three sources: the Heatherlie quarry in the Grampians (Silurian), the Bacchus Marsh area (Permian), and the Barrabool Hills near Geelong (Cretaceous).Sandstone features prominently in public buildings throughout Victoria, making this specimen special as it shows the materials used by Victorian building companies. Sandstone can also be crushed, crushed stone is used in the construction of roadways and road structures such as bridges, and in buildings, both commercial and residential. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. A feldspar-rich sandstone, a sandstone intermediate in composition between an arkosic sandstone and a quartz sandstone, containing 10% to 25% feldspar and less than 20% matrix material of clay, sericite, and chlorite. Feldspathic arenite containing less than 90 percent of the composition of quartz. Feldspar is the main composition. Feldspathic arenite may contain fragments of unstable rock, and a little amount of other minerals such as mica and heavy minerals. Some feldspathic arenite have pink or red color because of the presence of potassium feldspar or iron oxide. There are also colored light gray to white. These sandstones are usually medium to coarse grained and can contain a high percentage of granules with angular until subangular roundness. The content of the matrix can appear as the rest up to more than 15 percent, and sorting of grains can present as moderate to poorly sorted. Feldspathic sandstones are generally immature in textural maturity. Feldspathic arenite can not be judged from the structure of the sediment. Bedding can emerge from the laminate parallel to the crossbed. Fossils may appear in the layer deposited on the sea. Feldspathic arenites usually appear on the craton or the continental shelf, which can be associated with conglomerate, quartz lithic arenite, carbonate rock, or evaporites. This sandstone may also appear on the succession of sedimentary basins deposited on an unstable or deep sea, and moving arc setting. According to Pettijohn (1963) Arkose make up about 15 percent of all sandstones. Some Arkose formed in situ when the granite and related rocks disintegrate and generate granular sediments. Most of the material feldspathic sandstones derived from primary crystalline granitic rocks, such as granite or metasomatic rocks containing abundant potassium feldspar. Mineral contained in sandstones is mostly a form of plagioclase feldspar derived from quartz diorite or volcanic rock. Feldspar contained on this sandstone comes from arid to cool climates when the chemical weathering process is reduced.sandstone, natural stone, feldspathic sandstone, burke museum, geology, geological, geological specimen

Rhodonite is a reddish-pink manganese silicate material and often contains iron, magnesium and calcium. It is usually found in metamorphic rocks (rocks which have been altered by heat, pressure or chemical process). It can range in size from tiny to massive. Because of their composition they are not suitable for use in jewellery because they are hard enough. It is quite rare to find, though has been found in Australia, North America, South America and Europe.This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study. This specimen is a palm shaped piece of loellingite within rhodonite. It is mostly reddish-pink coloured, with flecks of light and dark grey. Loellingite is a grey iron arsenide which often forms into crystal shapes. It is mostly found in mesothermal veins (caused by immense heat) with sulfides or in limestone. It is toxic when heated or struck. rhodonite, loellingite, burke museum, beechworth, geological survey of victoria

This specimen was recovered from Silverton Mine in Broken Hill, New South Wales. Otherwise known as the 'Day Dream Mine', the Silverton Mine was first established in 1883, when silver and lead deposits where discovered. Within a few short years, the population of Broken Hill reached 3000 people. As of today the Silverton Mine is still open, and has produced over 200 million tonnes of ore, which has generated over $100 billion. The Silverton Mine was also famous for a number of specimens such as silver, iron and zinc.Copper is considered to be a rare ore in that finding it in its pure form is rare. Nowadays when mining for Copper it is often found in mixed in with other minerals or it is recycled from use. Moreover, Copper is found in a range of everyday uses such as coins, cookware, pipes, heating conductors and anything that generate electricity. The fact that Copper is heat a heat conductor, electricity conductor and it does not corrode easily, makes this ore a versatile and useful. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A solid hand-sized cube-shaped sulfide and oxide with shades of green, grey and brown throughout. Copper is typically found as nuggets in the ground. It can be found in a range of forms such as its native state; mixed with other ores, such as zinc and iron; as porphyry copper deposits; and as major deposits. Porphyry deposits are when the mineral is scattered evenly throughout the rock. Major deposits are when the mineral is scattered amongst other minerals.burke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, beechworth musum, geological, geological specimen, mineraology, copper, copper ore, copper ore speciment, broken hill, new south wales

According to the 1912 Department of Mines Bulletin of the Geological Survey of Victoria, basalt covers a considerable portion of the Macedon area including Mount Macedon. Basalt is the most common form of rock underlying the earth's surface and is found in three kinds of rock forming environments: ocean divergent boundaries, oceanic hotspots, and mantle plumes and hotspots beneath continents.This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A solid mass, geological specimen in shades of grey and white. Hyalite is a colourless variety of opal. It occurs as globular and botryoidal masses and irregular crusts in volcanic and pegmatite environments where the silica deposits from the gas phase. Basalt is dark in colour, fine-grained igneous rock composed of plagioclase and pyroxene minerals. It is commonly formed as an extrusive rock, such as lava flow. It is one of the most common forms of rock underlying the earth's surface.burke museum, geological specimen, department of mines, geological survey of victoria, basalt, mount macedon, beechworth

This particular specimen was recovered from the Lal Lal Coal and Iron Mine in Victoria, 19km from Ballarat. Brown Coal was discovered here in 1857, just alongside the Geelong to Ballarat Railway line. This discovery of lignite (brown coal) was the first in Victoria, which would bring important benefits to the region and state, both of which had previously been reliant on coal imports. In the 1860s, iron ore was found just 5km from Lal Lal, and the area was converted into an Iron Ore Mine. The Lal Lal Iron Mining Company took over operations in 1874, who then peaked iron production in 1884. This mine continued operations until June 1884, when the blast furnace was extinguished and never recommenced. The blast furnace at Lal Lal is considered one of the most important and highly significant sites ion early industrial history in Australia, as it is the only remaining best furnace from the nineteenth century in the Southern Hemisphere. The furnace ruins are 17 metres high, and are clearly visible today on Iron Mine Road, Lal Lal, near the Bungal Dam. This specimen of Lignite (brown coal) is significant, as it was mined from the area where brown coal was first discovered in Victoria, leading to an important and controversial future of the mining and use of brown coal in this State. The Victorian Heritage Database has listed the Lal Lal Coal Mine with local significance, with their Statement of Significance stating: "The Lal Lal coal mine is historically significant as the site of the first discovery of lignite (brown coal) in Victoria, and one that promised important benefits to regional and state industries that were reliant on coal imports at the time. The significance of the stie is reduced by the poor state of preservation of the coal mining and processing fabric". This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A hand-sized light-weight, soft and combustable sedimentary rock specimen, that is dark brown in colour. The specimen has jagged edges, as though parts of the rock have crumbled away. Brown coal, or Lignite, is formed naturally from compressed peat, and is typically found in natural basins. The stages to the formation of coal ('coalification') begin with plant material and wood, which will decay if it is not subjected to deep burial or heating, and turn into Peat. Peat, when sufficiently compressed naturally, will turn into Brown Coal (Lignite), and finally into Black Coal (sub-bituminous, bituminous and anthracite). Each successive stage has a higher energy content and lower water content. It is brownish-black in colour. Brown Coal has a high moisture content, between 50 and 75 percent, and a low carbon content. Some Brown Coals may be stratified, with layers of plant matter, which means little coalification has occurred beyond the peat natural processing stage. When Brown Coal is submerged in dilute nitric acid or boiling potassium hydroxide solution, it reacts to produce a reddish solution, of which higher-ranked coals do not. When brown coal is pulverised and burned in boilers, the steam is used to drive turbines, which generates electricity. It is the lowest rank of coal, as when burned, it creates a relatively low heat content, which in turn does not create a great output of steam. burke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, beechworth museum, geological, geological specimen, mineralogy, brown coal, brown coal specimen, lignite, lal lal, lal lal coal mine, lal lal iron mine, ballarat, blast furnace

Gabo Island sits off the coast of East Gippsland in Victoria, with cliffs of granite in a relatively unique red/pink colour. Early attempts to build a lighthouse on the island were abandoned due to poor foundations, but when a ship ran aground on the nearby Tullaberga Island in 1853 and led to the death of 37 people, efforts were reignited. Construction of a new lighthouse was completed by 1858, using Gabo Island granite. The lighthouse is Australia's second tallest in Australia and continues to play an important role in guiding boats around the coast as they journey between Melbourne and Sydney. The distinct pink colour from the granite means the lighthouse continues to be a defining feature of the island. Gabo Island granite was also used to construct the Treasury Building at 117 Macquarie Street in Sydney, now the Intercontinental Hotel.Granite in the pink colour of this specimen is relatively rare. The connection to the lighthouse on Gabo Island also gives the specimen historic significance and social significance regarding the maritime history of Victoria. This specimen is part of a larger collection of geological and mineral specimens collected from around Australia (and some parts of the world) and donated to the Burke Museum between 1868-1880. A large percentage of these specimens were collected in Victoria as part of the Geological Survey of Victoria that begun in 1852 (in response to the Gold Rush) to study and map the geology of Victoria. Collecting geological specimens was an important part of mapping and understanding the scientific makeup of the earth. Many of these specimens were sent to research and collecting organisations across Australia, including the Burke Museum, to educate and encourage further study.A solid palm-sized mineral, coloured by flecks of pink, red, and grey. Granite is formed by the slow crystallisation of magma below the earth's surface. It is typically composed of a mix of quartz, feldspar, and other minerals, though syenitic granite like this sample has a smaller amount of quartz than typical granite. This different mineral composition leads to the more distinct pink and red colouring.First sticker: [torn]logical survey / R........ S........ / Loc Gabo Island / 1/4 Sheet / Second Sticker: 15 Third Sticker: Syenitic Graniteburke museum, beechworth, indigo shire, beechworth museum, geological, geological specimen, mineralogy, gabo island, gabo island lighthouse, lighthouse, granite, coast, coastal, granite specimen, victoria, coastal cliffs