Chalcopyrite with Quartz

specimen number:
2341070

location:
Ait Ahmane, Zagora, Draa-Tafilalet, Morocco

description:
Semi lustrous sharp crystals of chalcopyrite measuring to 2.0 cm in size set up on a crystallized quartz matrix. The quartz crystals are colorless, semi lustrous, and slightly translucent. The largest quartz crystals measure to 4.3 cm in length. In good condition. The specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Jan Erik Larsen.

Ait Ahmane, situated in the eastern sector of the Bou Azzer-El Graara inlier within the Anti-Atlas belt of Morocco, is a renowned mining locality with operations dating back to the mid-20th century. Geologically, the area is characterized by a Neoproterozoic ophiolitic sequence where serpentinized ultramafic rocks and quartz diorites are heavily faulted and hydrothermally altered. Mineralogically, the district is famous for its complex vein systems that yield cobalt arsenides, native silver, and nickel minerals, alongside striking associated specimens of cobaltian calcite and various secondary phases that attract mineral collectors globally.

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