Calcite with Pyrite

$6,500.00

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Ships from USA

T

The ArkenstoneFeatured

3,403 for sale·Member since 2026

The contrast of oriented pyrite inclusions on certain edges and faces of calcite crystals is a curious phenomenon at some locations, but particularly known in a diverse array of styles from central China's Hunan Province. For whatever reasons, it has produced multiple pockets and varieties of pyrite-on calcite, where the combination is uniquely appealing due to edge effects of the pyrite, sitting in and on the calcite as it formed. From a single now-infamous pocket found in 2012 in the rich Chenzhou mining region in Hunan Province, this is one of the most famous and highly desired of all calcite styles from China. These traded as if they were gold, and quickly disappeared into top collections in the USA (including my own); and few who hold them have been willing to sell once since that time. This piece, an elegant example with superb form, is complete all around. It turned up in a collection in China that got sold off during COVID (a number of small private collections of fine quality were sold as the economy and lockdown worsened; and we bought all we could), and which I was able to obtain. I have not had another to sell in many years, in any size. This has the look that is immediately recognizable and appeals to sophisticates and newbies alike for amazing geometry. The pyrite emphasizes the edges and patterns of the calcite faces. The result is like art - and it is more impactful in person, as well. The central cluster is 8 cm across, and composed of intergrown sharp twinned calcites. The look is totally unique to one pocket, one place and time. What a pleasure to have a chance to offer one again, after nearly a decade.