Yaogangxian Mine

The Yaogangxian Mine sits at 25° 38' 35'' North, 113° 19' 17'' East, in Yizhang County, Chenzhou City, Hunan Province, China. It's in the southeast of Hunan, close to the Guangdong border, about 350 km from Changsha. Nearby, you'll find other notable mineral sites like Huangni'ao Mine and Shizhuyuan Mine, making it a hotspot for mineral enthusiasts.

This mine is a treasure trove, especially for tungsten and tin, with standout minerals like fluorite (blue to purplish), bournonite, and large arsenopyrite crystals. It's part of a greisen-skarn deposit formed by a granite intrusion, altering surrounding rocks into zones rich in these minerals.

Mining began in 1914 and continues today, operated by the Hunan Yaogangxian Mining Company. It's a significant producer, with modern methods ensuring a steady supply of high-quality specimens.

Yizhang County has a rich history, notably hosting Zhu De's troops in 1928, and features local dishes like taro lotus duck. The area enjoys a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters, nestled in a forested mountain setting.

It's fascinating that this mining area played a role in Chinese history, sheltering revolutionary troops, adding a layer of historical depth to your mineral-hunting adventure.