Chalcopyrite (fine crystals) with Galena

Item Description

There are many mines in Peru which have produced some of the finest crystallized examples of various common sulfides ever found. These specimens were all the rage a few decades ago, and should still be appreciated by collectors as the best pieces rank among the best examples of their respective species extant. This attractive display specimen features sharp, well-formed, lustrous, golden-brassy colored crystals of Chalcopyrite measuring up to 1.1 cm sitting atop a matrix of crystallized silvery-grey Galena with minor associated Quartz. If you look closely, you'll see many of the Chalcopyrite crystals have an epitaxial overgrowth of black Sphalerite, creating a very pleasing effect. You don't see many Chalcopyrite specimens from Casapalca on the market anymore, and this one is a really gorgeous piece as there are a multitude of crystals habits present, including some attractive twins. The piece has almost no visible damage on the display side, and looks better in person, so don't pass this one up if you collect sulfides or association pieces. Priced at $950 in the inventory.