Calcite with Pyrite

Calcite and Pyrite are deceptively simple species for what is a truly beautiful specimen from the Příbram Mining District in the Czech Republic. At just about 7 cm wide, it may be described as a large miniature or small cabinet specimen, the choice is yours. Translucent to opaque milky white Calcite forms a cluster of tall, slender scalenohedral crystals averaging 1 to 1.5 cm tall and occasionally to over 2 cm. Probably because of copper sulphide deposition, these crystals gradually darken with height while their upper halves are encrusted with micro-crystals of Pyrite. These form as natural metallic golden Pyrite cubes with beautifully iridescent peacock blue, red, purple and green patina. A wonderful and eye-catching Calcite with Pyrite from Příbram.