Actinolite mineral specimen from Badlands Petrified Gardens, Kadoka, South Dakota

Actinolite is a common amphibole mineral that forms in metamorphic rocks, particularly in areas where igneous rocks have been altered by heat and pressure. This specimen originates from the Badlands Petrified Gardens in Kadoka, South Dakota, a well-known locality that operated as a tourist attraction and rock shop from the mid-20th century, offering genuine mineral specimens to visitors and collectors. The Badlands region is renowned for its unique geological formations and fossil deposits, making it a significant area for paleontological and mineralogical study. Actinolite specimens like this one appeal to mineral collectors, geology enthusiasts, and educational institutions for their scientific and aesthetic value. The original card mount from Badlands Petrified Gardens adds historical provenance and collectibility, as vintage labeled specimens from defunct or historic rock shops are increasingly sought after by collectors who value both the mineral and its documented origin. Such specimens serve as tangible connections to mid-century American roadside attractions and the golden age of rock and mineral collecting.