Pyrite on Hematite (classic locale) Rolando & Dr. B. Phillips Coll.

Item Description

Exceptional older pyrite on hematite from the Bacino stope of the famed and ancient iron Rio Mine, where mining started by the Etruscans! Three aesthetically intergrown pyritohedrons are dramatically set atop the striking layered hematite matrix. The sharp, splendent brassy pyrites reach 3.8 cm across. The pyritohedrons rest on impressive dense jackstraw clusters of hematite blades followed by a layer of sparkly granular hematite with another layer of intergrown hematite blades at the bottom. The pyrites have only trivial edge wear and the noted bruising to the bladed hematite clusters is certainly only a negligible detraction. Formerly in the Anna and Danilo Rolando and Dr. Barratt Philips Collections. An outstanding older pyrite and hematite combination from this most classic locale on Elba Island with multiple display views.