Mirror-Luster Cubic Pyrite on Matrix – Cerro de Pasco, Peru – 1.95 lbs

An exceptional cabinet-sized Cubic Pyrite specimen from the historic Cerro de Pasco mining district of Peru, featuring multiple sharply geometric crystals emerging dramatically from natural host matrix. The composition is dominated by several substantial cubes with brilliant metallic surfaces, crisp edges, and the architectural presence for which fine Peruvian pyrite is highly prized.

The largest elevated cube creates a commanding focal point, rising above the matrix with broad, highly reflective faces that shift from warm golden brass to dark mirror-like tones as the lighting and viewing angle change. Several additional cubes are positioned across the specimen, producing a balanced three-dimensional formation that remains visually engaging from multiple sides.

Close examination reveals intricate natural surface textures, including fine growth markings, stepped patterns, and subtle striations across the crystal faces. These features are part of the pyrite’s natural crystallization—not evidence of cutting or polishing. Areas with smoother development produce an especially intense metallic reflection, while more heavily textured faces scatter the light into a sparkling, almost hammered-metal appearance.

The pale tan to gray host matrix provides strong visual contrast against the pyrite’s metallic brilliance. Portions of the matrix remain attached around and between the crystals, preserving the specimen’s natural geological context and emphasizing how remarkably geometric mineral forms developed within the surrounding rock.

Measuring approximately 4 × 4 × 5 inches and weighing 1.95 pounds, this is a substantial collector specimen with excellent height and cabinet presence. Its combination of large cubes, strong luster, natural matrix, sculptural balance, and prestigious Peruvian locality makes it an impressive centerpiece for an advanced mineral collection.

Specifications

Mineral: Pyrite

Formation: Multiple natural cubic crystals on matrix

Locality: Cerro de Pasco mining district, Pasco, Peru

Weight: 1.95 lbs (approximately 885 grams)

Dimensions: Approximately 4 × 4 × 5 inches

Color: Metallic brass-gold with darker reflective tones

Crystal Habit: Large intergrown cubes with natural growth textures and striations

Luster: Brilliant metallic to mirror-like

Transparency: Opaque

Crystal System: Isometric

Chemical Formula: FeS₂

Matrix: Pale tan to gray natural host rock

Condition: Natural mineral specimen with inherent contacts, surface textures, edge irregularities, and matrix attachments

Treatment: Natural crystal faces; not cut or polished

Display: Large cabinet specimen; display stand shown is not included unless otherwise specified

Exact specimen shown

About Cerro de Pasco Pyrite

Pyrite is an iron sulfide mineral with the chemical formula FeS₂. Its metallic brilliance and brass-gold coloration inspired the familiar nickname “fool’s gold,” but exceptional crystallized specimens are valuable collector minerals in their own right.

Because pyrite crystallizes in the isometric system, it can form remarkably precise cubes that appear almost manufactured. The parallel lines and intricate patterns visible across many crystal faces are natural growth features produced by variations in the crystal’s development. These markings help distinguish naturally formed pyrite from polished or fabricated objects.

Cerro de Pasco is one of Peru’s most historically important polymetallic mining districts and is internationally recognized for producing outstanding pyrite specimens. Fine examples are particularly admired for their large cubic crystals, sharp geometry, brilliant metallic luster, and contrasting natural matrix.

The apparent color of highly reflective pyrite can change dramatically with its surroundings. Under warm lighting, the faces may appear richly golden; under darker conditions, the same surfaces can become nearly black while retaining a mirror-like reflection.

Collector Notes

This specimen features:

• Multiple substantial natural pyrite cubes
• A large elevated crystal creating a dramatic focal point
• Brilliant metallic and mirror-like reflectivity
• Crisp cubic geometry and sharply defined edges
• Fine natural striations and intricate growth textures
• Contrasting pale host matrix
• Strong three-dimensional composition
• Attractive presentation from several viewing angles
• Natural crystal faces that have not been cut or polished
• Classic material from Cerro de Pasco, Peru
• Substantial 1.95-pound cabinet size
• Exceptional centerpiece presence
• One-of-a-kind natural mineral formation
• Exact specimen pictured

Perfect for collectors of Peruvian pyrite, cubic minerals, Cerro de Pasco specimens, metallic crystals, large pyrite cubes, natural geometric formations, mining-district minerals, architectural specimens, and premium cabinet displays.

Professionally packaged and shipped from Colorado.

You will receive the exact specimen shown.

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