Apache Mine
Radium, Burch area, Globe Hills Mining District, Gila County, Arizona, USA
Key Information
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The Apache Mine is located in Gila County, Arizona, USA, about 5 miles northwest of Globe, near small towns like Claypool and Miami.
It is known for producing vanadinite, wulfenite, and chrysocolla, with vanadinite crystals being particularly vibrant and collectible.
The mine features vein deposits in quartzite, formed during Late Cretaceous-Tertiary intrusive periods, with diabase intrusions.
Mining occurred from 1929 to 1957, with historical production including vanadium concentrates, and it was discovered in 1875.
The area has a rich mining history tied to Globe, with local culture reflecting copper mining heritage and nearby archaeological sites.
The climate is arid, typical of the Sonoran Desert, which likely influenced mineral formation through weathering processes.
Geographic Location
Nestled in the rugged terrain of Gila County, Arizona, the Apache Mine lies about 5 miles northwest of Globe, a historic mining town, and is surrounded by small communities like Claypool (7 km away) and Miami (9 km away). This locale sits in the Globe Hills Mining District, part of the southwestern United States, known for its mining heritage. Nearby, enthusiasts can explore other notable sites, such as the Old Dominion Mine, adding to the region's mineral-rich allure.
Minerals Produced
The Apache Mine is a treasure trove for crystal enthusiasts, famed for its vibrant vanadinite crystals, which gleam in shades of red and are highly sought after by collectors. It also yields wulfenite, with its buttery yellow hues, and chrysocolla, known for its turquoise blues. These uncommon minerals, alongside lead, zinc, and copper, highlight the mine's unique geological offerings, with vanadinite often found in stunning, collectible forms.
Geological Structure
The mine's geology is a fascinating story of vein deposits within Pioneer Quartzite, part of the Apache group, shaped by Late Cretaceous-Tertiary intrusive activities. Diabase intrusions weave through the quartzite, creating a complex network where minerals like vanadinite formed. The ore zone stretches 457 meters long and 3 meters wide, dipping steeply, offering a glimpse into the dynamic forces that crafted this mineral haven.
Mining History
Discovered in 1875, the Apache Mine began significant production from 1929 to 1957, operating as both a surface and underground mine with two shafts. It shipped 20 tons of vanadium concentrates in 1930, mostly vanadinite, reflecting its historical importance. Over the years, it changed hands among owners like Edward C. O'Brien & Co. and Mercur-King Consolidated Mines, leaving a legacy of exploration and extraction in the region.
Local Culture and Characteristics
The Apache Mine's surroundings echo Globe's mining heritage, a town founded in the 1870s and still tied to copper mining. Local culture celebrates this history, with landmarks like the Gila County Courthouse and the Drift Inn saloon, once bustling during shift changes. Nearby, the Besh-ba-gowah Archaeological Park offers a glimpse into pre-Columbian Salado ruins, connecting the area's past with its mineral wealth.
Climate and Ecology
Set in the arid Sonoran Desert, the Apache Mine experiences hot, dry conditions, with sparse vegetation typical of the region. This climate likely played a role in mineral formation, as weathering processes concentrated vanadium and other metals. The ecology, adapted to desert life, underscores the harsh environment that shaped these unique mineral deposits.