Franklin and Sterling Hill, New Jersey contain two of the most remarkable mineral deposits on earth.

More fluorescent mineral species have been reported from here than anywhere else, and more than a few glow brilliantly.

Though some are exceedingly rare, fortunately two of the most colorful, willemite and calcite, are present in tremendous quantity. In fact they still today cover the ground in places.

The area is blessed with two excellent museums; the Franklin Mineral Museum in Franklin, NJ; and the Sterling Hill Mining Museum in nearby Ogdensburg, NJ. Both are open during the spring, summer and autumn for tours and collecting.

For vivid fluorescent colors and complex patterns these twin deposits have no equal.

For more information on them visit our sister website franklin-sterlinghill.com.

Above, calcite and willemite from Franklin, NJ fluorescing under shortwave ultraviolet; width 10 cm. Below, the 'Rainbow Room' at Sterling Hill.