Bornite replacing Pyrite

Milpillas Mine, Cuitaca, Mun. de Santa Cruz, Sonora, Mexico
Small Cabinet, 6.7 x 4.8 x 4.6 cm
Start Time: 08/02/2018 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
End Time: 08/09/2018 6:45:00 pm (CDT)
Auction Closed

Item Description

Typically we see copper in the form of Azurite and Malachite from Milpillas, but the "sulfide" zone has recently produced some attractive Bornite specimens. In actuality these specimens are technically replacement of Bornite after Pyrite (some people are calling them pseudomorphs, but I don't know if there is a complete replacement). A few spots on the crystals show golden metallic Pyrite, but others are completely replaced all the way through. This fine small cabinet display piece features sharp, rather lustrous (splendent), silvery metallic crystals of Bornite after Pyrite measuring up to 3.6 cm at their longest dimension perched atop matrix. The majority of the crystals are in good condition, and but they're fire quality, not only for the locality, but Bornite worldwide. Bornite is often dull, and oxidized, and to find crystals (even pseudomorphs) with notably sharp and highly lustrous faces is not only significant, but should be apprecaited more than the attention I'm seeing for them on the market. These are GOOD specimens, and should be recognized as such. Milpillas may or may not produce more Azurites and Malachites, it's hard to know who to believe, but these Bornites after Pyrite are limited for sure, and if you want one, don't pass them up, because like most localities, the material goes away fast, and then it's very difficult to find good quality pieces for decent prices.

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