Large sphalerite, pyrite & rock crystal specimen from Madan, Bulgaria

An exceptionally richly crystallized and high-contrast mineral specimen from the famous mining district of Madan in the Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria.

The 411 g specimen is almost entirely covered with various generations of crystals. Particularly striking are the dark gray to deep black, highly metallic lustrous crystals and aggregates of zinc blende (sphalerite). Between them are numerous brass to gold-colored pyrite crystals, including clearly cubic specimens.

The countless small white to colorless rock crystals (quartz), which cover large areas of the specimen like a fine crystal lawn, form a particularly beautiful contrast. In some places, the quartz crystals grow directly between and onto the dark sphalerite aggregates and the gold-colored pyrite crystals.

This combination creates an extraordinary interplay of colors in deep black, metallic gray, gold, and white. Depending on the light, the sphalerite and pyrite in particular reflect very intensely, constantly revealing new surface details.

The specimen beautifully demonstrates the association of various sulfide minerals with quartz that is characteristic of the polymetallic deposits of Madan. What makes this specimen particularly attractive is the large number of visible crystals and the almost completely mineralized surface.

A large, heavy, and extremely detailed collector's item that impresses both from a distance with its strong contrasts and under a magnifying glass with its numerous small crystal forms.

Minerals:
• Sphalerite / zinc blende
• Pyrite
• Rock crystal / quartz

Locality:
Madan, Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria

Weight:
approx. 411 g

Size:
approx. 105 × 80 × 40 mm

You will receive the exact individual piece shown in the pictures.