3.6" Chalcopyrite Encrusted Calcite Crystal Cluster - Morocco

This is an aggregation of calcite crystals that are encrusted in a layer of iridescent chalcopyrite crytals, collected from the Oumjrane area of Morocco.

Calcite, CaCO3, is a carbonate mineral and the most stable polymorph of calcium carbonate. The other polymorphs are the minerals aragonite and vaterite. Calcite crystals are trigonal-rhombohedral, though actual calcite rhombohedra are rare as natural crystals. However, they show a remarkable variety of habits including acute to obtuse rhombohedra, tabular forms, and prisms. Calcite exhibits several twinning types adding to the variety of observed forms. It may occur as fibrous, granular, lamellar, or compact. Cleavage is usually in three directions parallel to the rhombohedron form.

Chalcopyrite is a brass-yellow colored mineral and an important copper ore. When weathered, chalcopyrite loses its metallic luster, turning a gray-green color. When exposed to acids, the tarnish can develop a red, blue, or purple iridescence: this acid-treated material is often sold under the name peacock ore.


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DETAILS
SPECIES
Calcite & Chalcopyrite
LOCATION
Oumjrane area, Morocco
SIZE
3.6" wide
CATEGORY
ITEM
#137142