Pyrite (ex Irv Brown Collection)

Item Description

This specimen comes to us from the collection of Irv Brown, and is simply labeled as coming from Austria. Though it would be difficult to pinpoint its exact origin, it is possibly from one of the various localities in Styria, where similar crystals have been found in the past. If anybody can give us a more specific locality for this specimen, please let us know. The piece is also labeled as being an "iron cross twin", but I honestly don't think it's true. The main crystal is certainly an attractive modified combination of pyritohedral and octahedral faces, but I don't see another crystal penetrating it to create the "iron cross twin". With that said, from simply a morphology standpoint, it's a GORGEOUS crystal with a unique form that I honestly can't say I've seen duplicated before in Pyrite. The faces are sharp, well-formed and alternate between smooth (octahedral) and striated (pyritohedral). The wonderful burnt red patina gives the piece so much character and an antique feel. No major damage to the main crystal, (which measures 2.0 cm across), but some of the smaller accessory crystals on the base are not 100% complete. A really interesting and special Pyrite that would make a great addition to any thumbnail / toenail suite, a collection of worldwide Pyrites or sulfides, or simply minerals from Austria.