large Magnetite crystals with Calcite

Item Description

Lustrous, sharp metallic black, modified magnetite octahedrons are aesthetically clustered on the calcite matrix on this sculptural and rich combination from this large open pit iron mine, and in fact this is magnetite-rich ore that is normally smelted. The impressive octahedrons reach 5.3 cm, very large for the locale. Highly magnetic, as you would expect. The noted bruising is certainly acceptable in the context of this piece from a large open pit mine. The piece is obviously from the Kovdor Zheleznyi Mine in the Kovdor Massif, well-known for such sharp magnetite crystals and not from the Lovozersky District, as listed on old cloth label attached. It is a significant example for the species, and the locality.