Pyrite Cube with Crystal Overgrowths from Extertal, Germany

This pyrite specimen comes from the Hohe Asch locality near Bösingfeld in the Extertal region of Germany. The piece is dominated by a large, distinctly cubic pyrite crystal, with several smaller intergrown pyrite crystals sitting on its faces.

The central main cube reaches an edge length of approximately 2.5 to 2.8 cm. Its faces and edges remain clearly recognizable despite the smaller crystals growing on its surface. These additional crystals give the aggregate an irregular, three-dimensional structure.

The brown coloration is caused by natural surface oxidation or limonitization of the originally brass-yellow pyrite. As a result, the crystal faces appear dull to weakly metallic.

Measuring 4.0 × 3.5 × 3.5 cm, the piece belongs to the miniature specimen size category. It weighs 121 g.

Pyrite from the Classic Hohe Asch Locality

The Extertal region is known for pyrite crystals and intergrown crystal aggregates in a variety of forms. Many specimens show brown surfaces caused by natural weathering.

This specimen is particularly notable for the large main cube in relation to its overall size. The combination of a clearly recognizable individual crystal, smaller crystal overgrowths, and the precise Hohe Asch locality makes it a characteristic specimen from the Extertal region.