The history and occurrence of 'Buxton Diamonds'

Starkey, R. and Faithfull, J. (2015) The history and occurrence of 'Buxton Diamonds'. Journal of the Russell Society, 18, pp. 24-45.

Abstract

The presence of quartz crystals in t he soils around Buxton has been known for centuries, and at one time theses so-called 'Buxton Diamonds' were, from published sources, apparently realtively abundant, and well-knwn to both visitors and to commentators. However, few specimens survive in museum collections, and there is considerable confusion in published accounts as to what exactly constitutes a 'Buxton Diamond'. No satisfactory description or explanation of their origin r occurrence has hitherto been published. Attractive specimens of quartz and amethyst are known from various occurrences in the Peak District, associated with igneous rocks, but these are not true 'Buxton Diamonds' . This paper presents the history of 'Buxton Diamonds', and confirms the occurrence of these, sometime highly attractive, crystals of quartz in the limestone of Diamond Hill and the surrounding area.

• Item Type: Articles
• Keywords: historical mineralogy, derbyshire, peak district, quartz
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Faithfull, Dr John
• Authors: Starkey, R., and Faithfull, J.
• Subjects: A General Works > AM Museums (General). Collectors and collecting (General); Q Science > QE Geology
• College/School: University Services > Library and Collection Services > Museum and Art Gallery
• Journal Name: Journal of the Russell Society
• Publisher: The Russell Society
• ISSN: 0263 7839
• ISSN (Online): 0263 7839