Les Farges Mine

Les Farges Mine is located near Ussel, a town in the Corrèze department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, in central France. Ussel sits on the edge of the Plateau de Millevaches, a highland area known for its scenic landscapes and biodiversity, making it a picturesque spot for mineral enthusiasts to explore.

The mine is renowned for its pyromorphite, a lead phosphate mineral with vibrant green crystals that are highly prized by collectors. Other minerals found include baryte, galena, wulfenite, and cerussite, offering a diverse range for those interested in mineralogy.

Research suggests the mine is a hydrothermal deposit, where hot fluids have deposited minerals in rock fractures. This is consistent with the Massif Central's geology, known for volcanic activity and faulting, which likely contributed to the formation of these mineral deposits.

The mine was known since the Gallo-Roman period, but modern mining by the Société Minière de Corrèze began in 1975 and lasted until 1981. It seems likely that the closure was due to economic factors or depletion of viable ore, given the short operational period.

Ussel boasts a rich cultural heritage, with historical sites like the Borde Castle and Mothe Castle, and the Museum of the Country of Ussel, which showcases local arts and traditions. The town's medieval architecture adds a historical charm for visitors.

The area has a mountain climate with significant rainfall, especially in winter and autumn, as seen in Ussel's climate data. The Plateau de Millevaches, a natural park, is home to diverse flora and fauna, potentially influencing the mineral formation processes.