Pyrite “horseshoe” with Siderite on Sphalerite

The Eagle mine is probably best known for its pyritohedral Pyrite specimens. Here we have a gorgeous display piece featuring a predominant and highly unusual “archway” or “horseshoe”-shaped group of sparkling brilliant golden color Pyrite pyritohedra which are associated with additional Pyrites and sitting amongst remarkably sharp AND lustrous crystals of jet black Sphalerite with notably SMOOTH faces – hardly any striations at all on many faces – are gently intermixed with soft beige-cream colored compressed rhombohedra or “discs” of Siderite. This piece is markedly three dimensional compared to most Eagle Mine Pyrites, which is a great touch. Due to the beautiful shape, amazing aesthetics and wonderful overall quality, it would make a great addition to any Colorado mineral suite.

From the collection of Robert Batic of New Jersey, whose label states that the specimen came from Edwin Skidmore originally. At one point there were hundreds, if not thousands, of these specimens available, and they are now seldom seen for sale like most classic minerals from Colorado.

Ex. Edwin Skidmore collection
Ex. Robert Batic collection

Specimen# CO712B78