Judith Lynn Claim

Pine Canyon deposit, West Burro Mountains, Burro Mountains Mining District, Grant County, New Mexico, USA

Key Information

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The Judy Lynn Claim in Pine Canyon deposit, West Burro Mountains, Grant County, New Mexico, is a notable locality for mineral enthusiasts, particularly for its pink-purple Fluorite.
Research suggests the area has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters, supporting a diverse ecology of desert-adapted plants and wildlife.
It seems likely that mining was small-scale, focusing on specimen collection, with claims dating back to the early 1940s but no significant ore shipped.
The evidence leans toward the geological structure involving pegmatites and hydrothermal mineralization, part of the Mazatzal province's complex history.

Geographic Location

The Judy Lynn Claim is located in the West Burro Mountains, part of the Big Burro Mountains, about 16 miles southwest of Silver City in Grant County, New Mexico. This region is near the town of Tyrone and is within the Gila National Forest, known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities like hiking and camping. Silver City, the county seat, is a historical and cultural hub with ties to Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo settlers.

Minerals Produced

The primary mineral at this locality is Fluorite, prized for its pink-purple color and unique surface texture, making it a favorite among collectors. The broader Burro Mountains Mining District also hosts minerals like copper, lead, gold, and silver, adding to the area's mineralogical richness.

Geological Structure

The deposit is associated with pegmatites and hydrothermal mineralization, formed through the region's geological history involving granitic batholiths and volcanic activity during the Mazatzal orogeny, offering a complex and fascinating geological setting.

Mining History

Mining at Pine Canyon began with claims in the early 1940s, but it appears to have been small-scale, focusing on collecting mineral specimens rather than large-scale ore production. The broader region, including nearby Tyrone, has a significant mining history, particularly for copper and uranium.

Local Culture and Characteristics

Grant County, encompassing this locality, has a rich cultural heritage tied to mining, ranching, and agriculture. Silver City, nearby, is known for its vibrant arts scene and historical significance, while the Gila National Forest offers recreational opportunities, enhancing the area's appeal to visitors.

Climate and Ecology

The area has a semi-arid climate, with hot, dry summers and cold winters, receiving about 11 inches of precipitation annually. The ecology features desert-adapted plants like grasses, shrubs, piñon, and juniper trees, supporting diverse wildlife including deer, elk, and various bird species.