4.5" Gemmy, Golden Barite Crystals - Meikle Mine, Nevada

Barite specimens from the Meikle Mine are considered some of the finest barites in the world. The mine was originally a joint venture between Barrick Goldstrike Mines and AngloGold Jerritt Canyon Joint Ventures. Voids containing beautiful golden barite crystals and other minerals were encountered during mining operations. Starting in 1995 and continuing through the late '90s, several individuals were invited to recover some of these fine specimens from a few pockets in the mine. They collected to depths of over 1,000 feet, which was made difficult due to confined spaces, high temperatures, and sulfur dioxide gas.

An article with some information on the specimen recoveyr at the Meikle Mine in the 90's:
Specimen Recovery at the Meikle and Murray Mines, Elko County, Nevada

Barite, commonly spelled baryte, is well-known for its great range of colors and varied crystal forms and habits. = It is a heavy mineral consisting of barium sulfate, and typically has the chemical formula of BaSO4. The barite group consists of baryte, celestine, anglesite, and anhydrite. It is generally white to colorless and is the main source of barium.