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What a remarkable Tetrahedrite from Peru. Specifically from Casapalca mine in Huarochirí Province this small cabinet specimen features a mountain range-like aggregate of well-formed tetrahedral crystals, the largest reaching a staggering 4.7 cm on edge, but with others at 3, 2.5 and 1.2 cm across. The main crystal is colossal for the species, or should I say 'group', for, in modern terminology, Tetrahedrite is not an individual species, but a group or series with many members. Most of the Casapalca mine 'Tetrahedrite' is specifically Tetrahedrite-(Fe). The crystals display a fine gun metal grey colour and slightly oily lustre. There is minor abrasion to the edges of the main crystal, but there is less that you might think, as some of the bevels and grooves are natural additional crystal faces. The main crystal faces also display prominent growth lines, adding to the crystallographic interest. The whole specimen has a core of fine-grained Pyrite. This is undoubtedly an older specimen, probably dating to the 1980s, if not earlier, and is a cracker. Ex David Hardman collection, no. 3667.
74 x 80 x 50 mm