Pyrite (old classic material - rare crystal habit) (ex Dave Bergman Collection)

Item Description

One of the lesser known, yet important localities for Pyrite in Colorado is the Climax Mine. This mine was big a molybdenum producer with a very large open pit and some underground tunnels. This specimen hosts a predominant, sharp, striated, golden metallic crystal of Pyrite with a beautiful combination of pyritohedral and octahedral faces measuring 3.2 cm across, sitting atop additional Pyrite crystal matrix. Minor associated tan "Sericite" can be seen on the piece as well. There are a few separation marks on the sides of the piece, so it's not completely pristine / fully crystallized, but it's in good condition overall. This particular habit is rarely seen from the Climax Mine, as most crystals found were simple cubes. The piece was collected in the mid 1970s. These are RARE on the market, so don't miss out on getting your hands on a good piece with a rarely seen crystal habit from this important Colorado locale. From the collection of legendary Colorado miner, Dave Bergman. Dave is now retired, but among other things, he was the foreman and primary person in charge of recovering specimens at the famous Sweet Home Mine near Alma, Colorado during the late 1970s. He is also the maternal grandfather of Brian Kosnar. See Dave's photo mining at the Sweet Home on page 58 of Peter Bancroft's book "Gem and Crystal Treasures". The piece was given to Dave as a gift by his son-in-law, Rich Kosnar and the hand-written label from Kosnar accompanies the piece.