Cubic Pyrite Crystals on Matrix from Navajún, Spain

This pyrite specimen comes from the Victoria Mine near Navajún in the Spanish province of La Rioja. Several brass-yellow pyrite crystals sit within a pale marl matrix. The largest crystal reaches an edge length of approximately 1.2 cm.

The pyrite crystals show a distinctly cubic habit with clearly recognizable cube faces. Two of the larger crystals are intergrown and form the visual focus of the specimen. Their surfaces display a pronounced metallic luster and stand out clearly against the pale matrix.

Weighing 344 g and measuring more than 10 cm along its longest dimension, the piece belongs to the large cabinet specimen size category.

Pyrite from the Classic Navajún Locality

Navajún is one of the best-known localities for cubic pyrite crystals. The crystals occur there in pale sedimentary rocks and are particularly known for their distinctly developed cubic forms.

In this specimen, several pyrite crystals sit directly within the natural marl matrix. The contrast between the brass-yellow crystals and the pale host rock makes the piece a characteristic specimen from this classic locality.