Opened in 2017 by UK Mining Ventures on the Sutcliffe vein of the former Rogerley quarry, the Diana Maria Mine extends the story of the legendary Weardale fluorites, which began in 1972. The site has since joined the Greenbank Vein, the historic Rogerley vein.
The Pyjama Pocket (Sept. 2025) is one of the latest great discoveries: gem-quality emerald green fluorite twins, about 1 cm in size, set on small, predominantly white, frosted fluorite cubes, offering a very beautiful contrast.
The most sought-after pieces are, as here, associated with small cubic-octahedral galena crystals nestled between the fluorites: a rare and very aesthetic contrast. The blue fluorescence is remarkable, clearly visible in daylight as well as under LED lighting. The main twin is very bright, very gem-like; the piece forms a very harmonious whole with its small galena crystal. A photogenic and very aesthetically pleasing set. A pocket with few pieces, but whose quality makes it a Weardale classic. |
