Some mineral specimens are impressive because of a single crystal. This one is an entire landscape.
Weighing approximately 3.8 kilograms (8.4 pounds), this extraordinary pagoda calcite with iridescent pyrite from Daye County, Huangshi, Hubei, China is a commanding, highly sculptural specimen whose sheer scale sets it apart.
The formation is covered with an extraordinary abundance of stacked, stepped and tower-like calcite growths—the distinctive architecture that gives pagoda calcite its evocative name. From broad, heavily textured formations to smaller individual towers rising across the surface, the specimen reveals new details from virtually every angle. The result is almost otherworldly: a sprawling mineral cityscape created entirely by nature.
Across the calcite, a fine coating of pyrite produces a remarkable metallic surface with flashes of gold, bronze, green, rose and subtle rainbow iridescence as the light moves across the specimen. The combination of intricate calcite morphology and shimmering pyrite gives the piece tremendous visual depth, with its appearance changing continuously depending upon the viewing angle and lighting.
What makes this specimen especially compelling is its size and completeness. Pagoda calcite specimens from the Daye area are encountered on the mineral market, but examples are commonly far smaller. At approximately 3.8 kg, this is a substantial, display-dominating specimen—and despite its complex, highly textured formation, it is remarkably complete and without notable damage.
This is not simply a large mineral specimen. It is a true statement piece: intricate enough to reward close examination, yet massive enough to command attention from across a room. The combination of monumental size, elaborate pagoda-like calcite growth, extensive iridescent pyrite coverage and exceptional overall condition makes this an unforgettable addition to a serious mineral collection.
Minerals: Calcite with Iridescent Pyrite
Formation: Pagoda / stepped-growth Calcite
Locality: Daye County, Huangshi, Hubei, China
Weight: Approximately 3.8 kg / 8.4 lbs.
Condition: Exceptional overall condition with no notable damage
Natural mineral specimen
Please see Additional Info below for video. Specimen will be securely packed, shipped USPS Priority Mail and insured.
Measures approximately 24cm x 15cm x 7.5cm (at thickest)
Weighs 3.82kg
FREE shipping/insurance to U.S. residents - WE DO NOT OFFER INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
Some mineral specimens are impressive because of a single crystal. This one is an entire landscape.
Weighing approximately 3.8 kilograms (8.4 pounds), this extraordinary pagoda calcite with iridescent pyrite from Daye County, Huangshi, Hubei, China is a commanding, highly sculptural specimen whose sheer scale sets it apart.
The formation is covered with an extraordinary abundance of stacked, stepped and tower-like calcite growths—the distinctive architecture that gives pagoda calcite its evocative name. From broad, heavily textured formations to smaller individual towers rising across the surface, the specimen reveals new details from virtually every angle. The result is almost otherworldly: a sprawling mineral cityscape created entirely by nature.
Across the calcite, a fine coating of pyrite produces a remarkable metallic surface with flashes of gold, bronze, green, rose and subtle rainbow iridescence as the light moves across the specimen. The combination of intricate calcite morphology and shimmering pyrite gives the piece tremendous visual depth, with its appearance changing continuously depending upon the viewing angle and lighting.
What makes this specimen especially compelling is its size and completeness. Pagoda calcite specimens from the Daye area are encountered on the mineral market, but examples are commonly far smaller. At approximately 3.8 kg, this is a substantial, display-dominating specimen—and despite its complex, highly textured formation, it is remarkably complete and without notable damage.
This is not simply a large mineral specimen. It is a true statement piece: intricate enough to reward close examination, yet massive enough to command attention from across a room. The combination of monumental size, elaborate pagoda-like calcite growth, extensive iridescent pyrite coverage and exceptional overall condition makes this an unforgettable addition to a serious mineral collection.
Minerals: Calcite with Iridescent Pyrite
Formation: Pagoda / stepped-growth Calcite
Locality: Daye County, Huangshi, Hubei, China
Weight: Approximately 3.8 kg / 8.4 lbs.
Condition: Exceptional overall condition with no notable damage
Natural mineral specimen
Please see Additional Info below for video. Specimen will be securely packed, shipped USPS Priority Mail and insured.
Measures approximately 24cm x 15cm x 7.5cm (at thickest)
Weighs 3.82kg
FREE shipping/insurance to U.S. residents - WE DO NOT OFFER INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING
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