Chalcopyrite on Dolomite

A beautifully aesthetic cabinet specimen of iridescent Chalcopyrite on Dolomite from Boltsburn mine at Rookhope in Weardale, County Durham, England, collected around 1900. The largest Chalcopyrite crystal measures 1.5 x 1.4 x 0.9 cm, whose faces are a blaze of bright metallic peacock blue, gold, mauve and green. These dazzling colours also characterise all the much smaller Chalcopyrite crystals scattered over the Dolomite. The Dolomite, essentially buttermilk cream, is highlighted with patches of orange-tan iron staining and has a superb, pearly lustre. This lovely specimen is accompanied by two previous collectors’ labels, one containing detailed information.