PAS15 Pyrite
Huanzala Mine, Huallanca District, Dos de Mayo Prov., Peru
9.2x 6.7x 6.1 cm
$595
An unusual specimen of pyrite from the recent pocket, with exceptional luster and very sharp crystals. The main crystal on this piece is a flattened rectangular prism, a bit of an oddity from a mine that usually produces fairly perfect cubes.
The piece does have a small amount of damage, and is best displayed from the front (as shown in the initial pictures) to minimize the appearance of rear contacts.
This was one piece from a medium sized lot that I purchased. As the person who sold them to me put it-- the group this belonged to was selected from "many tons" of specimens, and judging from what I usually see, I am inclined to believe him. It is never difficult to buy pyrite in Peru, but finding good pieces is another story entirely-- the combination of "heavy" and "brittle" does not make it easy.
