SM20-401
Pyrrhotite
Morro Velho Gold Mine, Nova Lima, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Small Cabinet, 9.1 x 7.1 x 3.3 cm
Ex. Edward Swoboda
$7,500.00 Payment Plan Available
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What an impressive Pyrrhotite cluster, just from a point of view of BEAUTY! This compelling composite of several large, bronze-colored Pyrrhotite crystals is composed of at least a half dozen individuals up to two and one-half inches across in a very geometric arrangement. Some crystals are in parallel growth while others are growing at acute angles, and all of the hexagonal plates have beveled edges. Two small clusters of smoky hued Calcite crystals are placed strategically on the piece for subtle effect. The display side is in excellent condition with only two barely discernible nicks that blend in with patina of the rest of the piece and aren't noticeable. The backside has local contacting where it was attached to coarsely crystalline Pyrrhotite. A very symmetric and attractive Pyrrhotite specimen formerly in the Edward Swoboda collection. He brought this back from Brazil in the 1950s or 1960s (and I cannot recall if he told me he self-collected it or not, now). This was purchased from Ed's garage in Beverly Hills, CA, when he was in his 80s and sold things he was uncovering as he unpacked old boxes. This is a unique historic specimen that happens to be a surprisingly good display quality specimen by any modern standard, totally different in appearance than other pyrrhotites. This gold mine is not currently producing specimens, and in fact never produced that many.