
NOV 12 | 10:00 AM

All auctions / Ethnographical / Brilliant Quartz Crystals on Octahedral Pyrite Formation...


An extraordinary visual contrast from a Peruvian polymetallic deposit — This exceptional collection specimen presents an extraordinary association of milky quartz crystals on a cube-shaped pyrite matrix, coming from the famous Huanzala mine, located in the majestic Peruvian Andes. The combination of two minerals so distinct in color, luster, and geometry creates a visual contrast of rare beauty, making it a piece of great aesthetic and scientific interest. The translucent brightness of the quartz blends with the metallic and strictly geometric surfaces of the pyrite, offering a harmony of shapes and textures. The crystal portion is dominated by a dense three-dimensional aggregation of quartz prisms, growing in varying sizes and orientations, creating a dynamic sculptural effect. The crystal tips show tones ranging from ice white to translucent, catching and reflecting light in a fascinating way. Among this sparkling cascade of quartz, the cubic pyrite crystals emerge powerfully, often gathered in complex aggregates. Their metallic faces, characterized by a warm golden hue, display intense luster and natural growth striations, which testify to the crystal's evolution and confer uniqueness to each cube, without representing imperfections. The way the two minerals interpenetrate is particularly fascinating and reveals the complex geological processes that led to their formation. In some areas, the quartz seems to grow directly on the pyrite, while in others, the golden cubes rise majestically among the white quartz points, or appear partially engulfed in crystallization, like precious guardians of a more ancient matrix. This mineral interaction creates a series of unique details that invite close observation. The Huanzala mine, located in the Huallanca district, Ancash region, on the southeastern slope of the Cordillera Huayhuash, is a polymetallic zinc-lead deposit, with subordinate occurrences of copper and silver. It is universally recognized also for producing exceptionally high-quality pyrite specimens for collectors. The mineralization here developed through complex processes of replacement and fluid circulation within carbonate sequences, ideal conditions that favored the association of numerous mineral species and the formation of crystals with spectacular morphologies. A specimen of such beauty is a valuable addition to any mineral collection or as a decorative element in a refined setting, evoking the wonder of the geological world. Conditions: The specimen is in good condition, as evidenced by the photographs. Any irregularities, small fractures, cavities, or color variations should be considered natural features of the mineral formation and not defects. No restorations or treatments are indicated, and none are evident from the images. An authentic and intact piece of nature.
Estimate:£711.95
To the auctionView all items fromCatawikiorEthnographical
Estimate:
£711.95
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