Calcite with iridescent Pyrite

Item Description

Dazzling iridescent microcrystalline pyrite on this very architectural and uncommon multi-generational calcite and pyrite from this well-known Chinese iron mine. The sculptural first generation flattened calcite crystals with trigonal terminations were covered by the intensely sparkly pyrite microcrystals. Then a second generation of glassy, lustrous, translucent gray calcite preferentially overgrew the pyrite. The multi-hued pyrite iridescence on the large sharp rhomb, 5.3 cm across, is spectacular. This iron-copper mine is probably best known for its beautiful gem, rich dark amber calcites from a majer 2009 find. Highly unusual, uncommon and very showy calcite and pyrite of this style from the locale. A small pocket of this material was found in 2023 and we obtained it directly in the mining town, in fall of 23. Many larger specimens had poor aesthetics actually, so this was one of the few we bought.