Mineral Species: Pyrite

Chemical Formula: FeS2

Chemical Name: Iron Sulfide

Mineral Class: Sulphide

Mineral Notes: Pyrite is the most abundant and widely distributed Sulfide. It is frequently found with many other metal ores. It is common in coal, slate and other metamorphic rocks. Frequently confused with Gold it is popularly known as "fool`s gold". However it is much harder and very brittle.

Description: This is a very difficult to photograph specimen due to its high luster and reflectivity. It consists of roughly square matrix hosting a thick deposit of highly crystalline Pyrite. The fetaure that makes the specimen  extremely unusual is the fact that the largest crystal has a pentagonal cross-section! We have never seen this form before, especially in a mineral that normally adopts the cubic habit. This is a very rare distortion.

Location: Huanzala Mine, Huanuco Province. Country, Peru.