Nodules of barite and aragonite are perched on an underlying base of celestine and fluorite on this beautiful specimen from the Annabel Lee Mine, Cave-In-Rock, Hardin County, Illinois. Under all UV wavelengths, this piece shows a lovely pastel fluorescent response. The size of this specimen is 70 x 40 x 28 mm and it weighs 54 grams.
The Annabel Lee Mine was operated by the Ozark-Mahoning Company, and its run lasted from 1984 to 1995. Historically, the Annabel Lee was a prolific source of classic Cave-In-Rock mineral specimens, including many that are fluorescent.
As shown above, this specimen shows its brightest and most colorful fluorescent response under long wave UV (365 nm). The barite and celestine fluoresce blue/white and the aragonite pink.
Following exposure to long wave UV (365 nm), brief green phosphorescence is seen.
A similar, but more subdued fluorescent response is seen under mid wave UV (302 nm).
As shown above, a nearly monochromatic, pale blue/white fluorescent response is seen under short wave UV (254 nm).
Above, the same specimen is shown under visible light. White nodules of barite and aragonite on an underlying base of bluish-white celestine and purple fluorite.