Calcite on Chalcopyrite from Daye Copper Mine, China

Dimension: 9cm x 5.3cm x 3.3cm
Weight: 222g
Locality: Tonglushan Mine, Daye Co., Huangshi Prefecture, Hubei Province, China
 
This is a significant old-time material from the 1980’s of mining in the world famous Tonglushan Mine (Daye Copper Mine) in China. Tetrahedral twins Chalcopyrite crystals interlinked to form a brassy metal plate measuring 9cm across, hosting pentagonal repeated twins Calcite crystals which are fluorescent to longwave UV lighting 365nm.  The metallic bronze-gold aggregates of shiny Chalcopyrite display a very pleasant and sculptural form and some micro crystals “sprinkled” on the Calcite in places, so stunning! The Tonglushan Mine has been mined continuously since the Chinese bronze age and this specimen is unique among many I have seen there. It displays nicely on a high quality metal display stand. Rare and exquisite historic material that looks beautiful and dramatic, only a few pieces would be offered for sale.
 
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