Pyrite with Quartz & Chalcopyrite · Huanzala

Description

Bright brassy-gold Pyrite crystals sit among a dense covering of clear to milky-white Quartz. Fine striations on the metallic faces and an open central recess give this cabinet specimen depth and contrast.

Chalcopyrite is recorded in the supplied mineral information. The specimen is photographed on a clear bevelled glass base; base inclusion has not been specified.

The dimensions refer to the mineral specimen.

You will receive the exact specimen photographed. Colour may vary with lighting and screen settings.

The open areas described in this piece contribute to its depth. Rather than a continuous flat surface, the growth can be followed around recesses and across changes in level. These spaces help distinguish the larger outline from the finer crystalline texture and give the specimen detail that can be appreciated as part of its three-dimensional form.

The accompanying Quartz brings a silicate crystal habit into the association. Its surfaces and crystal outlines contrast with the featured mineral, giving the specimen more than one kind of growth to examine. The way the minerals occupy the same piece is part of its character: the setting retains their natural relationship and adds depth to the overall display.

Pyrite is iron sulphide, known for its brassy metallic colour and crystallisation in the cubic system. Cubes, octahedra and pyritohedra are among its characteristic forms. Unlike gold, it is a brittle crystalline mineral. Well-defined faces and the way crystals meet make Pyrite particularly interesting for someone collecting natural geometry as well as metallic lustre.

Fine lines on Pyrite faces can reflect its growth pattern rather than decoration added to the surface. A group may combine broad mirror-like reflections with darker recesses between crystals. Where an accompanying mineral is recorded, the contrast between metallic Pyrite and that material provides another aspect to study, alongside the shape and spacing of the individual crystals.

The recorded origin is Huanzala Mine, Huallanca District, Dos de Mayo Province, Huánuco Department, Peru. Within a collection of Pyrite specimens, this locality gives the piece a geographical identity alongside its particular crystal habit and natural setting.

The specimen measures 80 × 50 × 40 mm. The proportions give a useful guide to its place in a display, with the individual crystal arrangement and mineral association remaining the principal points of interest.

Support the stable matrix or the supplied mount when moving the specimen, avoiding pressure on projecting growth. A secure indoor display allows its natural form and surface detail to be appreciated while protecting exposed crystal edges.