Pyrite on 365 nm Fluorescent Calcite – Huanzalá Mine, Peru – 0.47 lb

A striking pyrite and calcite specimen from the celebrated Huanzalá Mine in Peru, combining brilliant metallic crystallization with an unexpectedly strong ultraviolet response. Numerous intergrown pyrite crystals are distributed across the white calcite formation, creating rich contrast between reflective brass-gold metal and pale crystalline matrix.
The primary display face contains several concentrated pyrite groups, accompanied by smaller isolated crystals scattered throughout the calcite. Their surfaces shift between bright gold, warm bronze, gunmetal, and nearly black reflections depending on the lighting angle. Fine colorless-to-white calcite crystals fill the spaces between these metallic formations, producing a densely textured, sparkling surface.
Under ordinary lighting, the calcite appears ivory white to softly translucent. When exposed to a 365 nm long-wave ultraviolet lamp, much of the calcite transforms into a strong icy blue-to-cyan glow. The nonfluorescent pyrite remains comparatively dark, creating a dramatic pattern of metallic islands against the illuminated calcite. Fluorescence intensity and apparent color may vary with lamp strength, ambient darkness, camera settings, and viewing conditions.
Mounted upright on a fitted black display base, this compact specimen offers attractive coverage and display interest from multiple angles.
Weight: 0.47 lbs, approximately 213 grams
Dimensions: Approximately 3 × 2 × 3.5 inches
Locality: Huanzalá Mine, Peru
Condition: Natural specimen with inherent contacts, incomplete crystals, inclusions, fractures, surface deposits, and edge irregularities. Exact specimen shown.
Professionally packaged and shipped from Colorado.
You will receive the exact specimen shown.
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