Pyrrhotite Crystal — Cabinet Specimen

$94.97
Chemical FormulaFe₁₋ₓS
Crystal SystemMonoclinic
Mohs Hardness3.5–4.5
Specific Gravity4.58–4.65
LusterMetallic
TransparencyOpaque

Pyrrhotite — iron sulfide with a magnetic personality — forms bronze-coloured hexagonal plates at Dalnegorsk, often accompanied by sphalerite and galena. It is slightly magnetic du…

12 in stock

SKU: TC-MIN-0195
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Description

Collectors say that minerals are the universe’s autobiography, written in atoms. Pyrrhotite — iron sulfide with a magnetic personality — forms bronze-coloured hexagonal plates at Dalnegorsk, often accompanied by sphalerite and galena. It is slightly magnetic due to a non-stoichiometric iron lattice, which means some specimens will move a compass needle. A mineral with an invisible force.

This specimen originates from Dalnegorsk, Primorsky Krai, Russia, one of the world’s most significant localities for this type of material. Collectors and scientists have drawn from this region for generations, and for good reason: the combination of geological conditions here produces specimens of exceptional quality and clarity.

Every specimen is unique. Photographs approximate the visual experience, but the real thing — its weight, its luster under a raking light, the way it catches the corner of your eye — can only be experienced directly.

Formation

This specimen formed through geological processes operating over timescales that dwarf human history. The specific combination of chemistry, temperature, pressure, and time at this locality produced material of exceptional quality that makes it a valued addition to any serious collection.

Locality

Pyrrhotite Crystal — Cabinet Specimen from Dalnegorsk, Primorsky Krai, Russia. This locality is known for producing specimens of exceptional quality.

Collector Notes

The luster is maximized by low-angle raking light — try a single spotlight.