Arsenopyrite ps. After Pyrrhotite (rare!)

Item Description

A dramatic, sculptural and rare large pseudomorph combination from this extinct mine. Three impressive, large parallel-growth, stair-stepped, tabular pyrrhotite crystals have been totally pseudomorphed by matte-gray arsenopyrite crystal aggregates and single crystals. The specimen also includes pyrite and sphalerite. This obscure small lead mine opened in the mid-1960s and operated as a bench scale project to determine the viability of operations (MINDAT). It was not economic and soon closed. Ex Dr. Gary Hansen dealer stock. His label dates from the 1960s to early 1970s. Valued by the former dealer at $795 for size, rarity and quality. Even Hansen's old label from the early 1980s had it at $85. A must for the locality or species collector.