An unexpected find in Finland, this Pyrite crystal specimen is from the Kemi mine in Finland. Pyrite crystals are considered very unusual for this region, with a distinctive appearance compared to other pyrite localities. This pyrite specimen has a unique etched surface texture and submetallic luster. Well-formed for the locality, with a defined cubic crystal structure. The contact point can be seen on the bottom of the crystal, where it was once attached to the host rock.
Kemi is the largest mine in Finland, its a chrome mine, the main ore is chromite, in 2.4 billion year old ultramafic layered intrusion. In 2022, a Polish collector was exploring the Kemi mine dumps, when she found pyrite crystals in the main host rock for the chromite. After returning several times to collect and explore the area further, only a small amount of these Kemi Pyrite crystals were found. Most were embedded in dense black mafic talc-carbonates. The dense host rock turned out to be a very hard, laboratory preparation was a demanding job, limiting the already small find. This Finland pyrite crystal is perfect for the pyrite collector who’s looking for a unique piece from a rare locality.
Mineral: Pyrite
Locality: Kemi Mine, Keminmaa, Lapland Province, Finland
Size: 2.6 x 2.6 x 2cm
Size category: Miniature
Weight: 21g
Includes acrylic base, temporarily mounted with mineral tack.
