Chalcopyrite with Calcite, Quartz

specimen number:
2072177

location:
Cavnic, Maramures Co., Romania

description:
Bright golden crystals of chalcopyrite averaging 0.5 cm in size throughout this sphalerite matrix that is mostly covered with colorless crystals of calcite and quartz. This is in super condition and very attractive.

Cavnic is a major mining center located in the Maramures region of northern Romania, situated within a volcanic caldera. Geologically, the area features a complex network of epithermal veins hosted in Neogene-aged volcanic rocks, primarily andesites and rhyolites. These veins are incredibly rich in base metals and silver, often containing a wide array of minerals such as galena, sphalerite, chalcopyrite, and various carbonates. Historically, mining at Cavnic dates back to at least the 14th century, with significant industrialization occurring under the Austro-Hungarian Empire during the 18th and 19th centuries. The mines were heavily expanded during the 20th century, particularly for lead, zinc, and copper production, before finally ceasing operations in 2006. For mineral collectors, Cavnic is world-renowned for its aesthetic specimens, including delicate pink rhodochrosite, fine calcite, quartz, and complex clusters of sulfide minerals, making it a classic European locality for high-quality crystalline treasures.

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