Pyrite replacing Marcasite

Item Description

This famous Canadian locality is renowned for producing unique and unusual crystallized Pyrite specimens. The highly modified, morphologically intriguing crystals from Nanisivik are immediately recognizable as you don't really see crystals like this from anywhere else. This piece is especially interesting as it features Pyrite replacing "cockscombs"-esque groups of Marcasite measuring up to 2.6 cm across, on massive Pyrite matrix. The detail of the crystals is captivating up close, and certainly unusual for the locality. Nearly all of the crystals are undamaged, only a few very minor imperfections keep the piece from being 100% perfect, but the overall quality is excellent. My favorite aspect of the piece is that the crystals sit UP above the matrix, and they're not so tightly intergrown that you can't discern one from another. They have decent separation and distinguishing characteristics that allow them to be appreciated on an individual level. Superb beautiful material, and one of the more unique Nanisivik Pyrites we've had to offer in the auctions in some time.
From the collection of William ("Bill") (1927-2006) and Anne (1928-2021) Cook of Cleveland, Ohio (#9889). This husband and wife duo were actively involved in the mineral world for many decades. Bill was a PhD geologist, and Anne was a mathematician, and they both were very serious mineral collectors. Bill served for many years as adjunct curator of mineralogy at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, and Anne was inducted into the Micromounters' Hall of Fame on October 12, 2019. Both Bill and Anne, at various times, served as president both of the Mineralogical Society of Cleveland and of the Micromineral Society of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. The rare barium lithium beryllium phosphate Wilancookite was named in their honor in 2015.