Bornite on Chalcopyrite - circa 1800s

Item Description

Mined mostly in the 1800's, these old-time combinations have an attractive character all their own. Intergrown Chalcopyrite crystals comprise the vuggy matrix, and the metallic luster and spectrum-spanning iridescence are both excellent. Lining the expansive vugs are Bornites that are mostly, but not entirely, microcrystalline. It is heavy and simply pretty "copper ore" - The smaller crystals have a bright, shiny luster, with most having the iridescence you would expect, especially in the blues. Over time, Carn Brea became an amalgamation of numerous small mines in this historic area, and this small cabinet nicely represents the district. Recently deaccessed from the Tim Sherburn collection.