Millions of years ago volcanoes were present in parts of Northern England. Heat from these volcanic sources produced hot fluids, which filled gaps and holes in the surrounding rocks. As the fluids cooled, crystals grew in these spaces to form mineral veins. When the Romans were in Northern England they worked these veins for lead. Since then, other metals such as zinc and tungsten have been mined in Cumbria and the North Pennines. Many of these minerals can still be found in the area, although it is too expensive to mine them.
The minerals shown here are on display in the Long Gallery at World Museum Liverpool. They are some of the finest from the large collection held by National Museums Liverpool.
Select an a mineral to view a larger image and find out more information about the mineral.
