Shangbao Chalcopyrite Specimens
Premier Metallic Crystals from Hunan, China
Size: 2cm cubes
Description
Exquisite chalcopyrite specimens from the famous Shangbao Mine in Leiyang City, Hunan Province. Known for their brilliant metallic luster, sharp crystal form, and distinctive brass-yellow color. These specimens represent some of China's finest chalcopyrite crystallizations.
Physical Characteristics
- Material: Chalcopyrite (CuFeS2)
- Color: Brilliant brass-yellow
- Luster: Metallic
- Crystal Form: Tetragonal, often displaying complex twinning
- Matrix: Usually on dark matrix stone
- Tarnish: May show iridescent tarnish
- Importance: It is a major ore of copper and is widely mined for copper extraction.
- Hardness: 3.5–4 on the Mohs scale.
Origin & Formation
- Origin: Shangbao Mine, Leiyang City, Hunan Province. This mine is renowned for its production of high-quality mineral specimens, including not just chalcopyrite, but also fluorite, quartz, pyrite, and other minerals.
- Formation: Hydrothermal deposits
- Associated Minerals: Often found with fluorite and calcite
Collection Value
- Highly sought after by serious mineral collectors
- Known for exceptional crystal form and luster
- Historic specimens from a classic Chinese locality
Care Instructions
- Handle with care to preserve crystal faces
- Store in mineral cabinet away from humidity
- Clean only with compressed air
- Surface may naturally develop iridescent tarnish over time