Pyrite epitaxial on Marcasite

specimen number:
2063739

location:
Algoma, Ontario, Canada

description:
Standing up from matrix is a bright golden grouping of marcasite crystals, these covered epitaxially by octahedral pyrite crystals, measuring 5.0 cm across. Complete all around and in good condition. The specimen comes with two previous labels, one from the collection of Ray DeMark in the other from F. John Barlow.

The Algoma District in Ontario, Canada, sits on the rich Precambrian Shield, where ancient volcanic, sedimentary, and metamorphic rock formations created major mineral wealth. Mining in the area began in earnest in the mid-nineteenth century following copper discoveries near Bruce Mines along Lake Huron, establishing one of the earliest commercial mining centers in Canada. In the twentieth century, Algoma gained international renown for the massive uranium deposits developed around Elliot Lake, as well as significant iron ore extraction near Wawa. Geologically, these ancient Paleoproterozoic and Archean complexes hosted massive hydrothermal ore systems and vein networks. For collectors, the district is celebrated for producing outstanding specimens of native copper, chalcopyrite, hematite, quartz variations, and magnetite, highlighting a long history of both industrial resource extraction and classic Canadian mineral collecting.

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