Witherite from Illinois sets the standard for the species, to most collectors. The only competitors are old English specimens, and there are few enough of them - plus they are white or chalky in color. This piece has amber-colored witherite intergrown over fluorite, and makes for a very choice small cabinet specimen. These mines are now closed and defunct, and good witherites have not been found in decades in any case, from any locality. The specimen was collected in the mine in 1971 by collector Bob Bartsch, and given to his friend Al Ordway on his return to California. It is a very aesthetic, choice example of the material from this mine both for its color and form, as well as exceptional luster for the species. Joe Budd Photos.