Dr. Archibald Bruce described the mineral zincite in 1810 and started the nearly 200 year legacy of the study of mineralogy at Franklin and Ogdensburg, New Jersey that is still alive today. Many of the scientists who followed his lead studied the deposits here and subsequently discovered a total of 357 mineral species to date. The bibliography found in the recent works of Dr. Pete J. Dunn titled "Franklin and Sterling Hill, New Jersey, the world's most magnificent ore deposits," (1995) will attest to the ongoing, intense pursuit for knowledge of these unique deposits, what's here and how they formed. 

There are yet many mysteries to be solved here. The Franklin Mineral Museum is dedicated to inspiring, and accommodating mineralogical and geological research as well preserving the history and cultural resources of Franklin and Sterling Hill, Ogdensburg, New Jersey. The Museum continues to keep up a list of confirmed mineral species from the area. See our updated Mineral List.

Research

	Zincite crystal  1.5 cm X 1.2 cm in calcite from the Sterling Mine. Overall size of this specimen is 4.5 cm x 1.5 cm. Franklin Mineral Museum specimen #6150.                                                  Photo by Carol Cianciulli

Research is ongoing at the Franklin Mineral Museum. For the latest info visit our what's new page. Also if you have questions or comments about Franklin/Sterling you may visit our Q&A page.

The Franklin Mineral Museum research department works closely with the scientific community in the never ending pursuit of knowledge. Our efforts and your support will keep this pursuit alive for many years to come. We thank you for your money, minerals and expertise!