Pyrite and Sphalerite

Item Description

Art Soregaroli is editor of the huge magnum opus, the giant book, Minerals of Peru. He had a huge suite of Peruvian minerals accumulated, mostly, from direct travel and purchase there during his long career in the mining industry spanning the heyday of Peruvian mineral production in the 1970s-1980s. This is from his personal collection, kept because of the mesmerizing patterning and the unusual association style. From the famous Huanzala Mine of Peru, this is a BEAUTIFUL and SHARP cluster of brilliant, golden Pyrite cubes up to 4.6 cm on edge. The corners are modified by the octahedron, and the edges have a fine bevel. The metallic luster is, of course, brilliant - you see the photographer's reflection in the photos, even. The Pyrites are accented by seven intergrown tetrahedral twins of Sphalerite that are lustrous, jet-black, and in a form that is sculptural and showy. Fine Sphalerite specimens are rare compared to the many tons of Pyrite specimens that have come from this famous locality, and here you have a terrific combination piece that gives you both.

This specimen is donated by ARKENSTONE in memory of Art Soregaroli, a great mentor and teacher to so many mineral collectors over so many decades. This is part of the 2023 Dallas Mineral Collecting Symposium benefit auction, with proceeds benefiting Mineralogical Record, Rocks & Minerals, Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, and mindat.org. Thanks to all of our participants!

Billing for this auction will occur on Monday, August 21st, for payment using PayPal or a credit card. Shipping will be billed at cost.