Chalcopyrite with Pyrite, Quartz

specimen number:
2312320

location:
Pcheloyad mine, Krumovgrad, Kardzhali, Bulgaria

description:
Sharp crystals of golden chalcopyrite measuring to 2.8 cm in size across the top of matrix with minor pyrite and quartz. This is in great condition. Very fine example for the species, especially for the locality.

The Pcheloyad deposit is situated in the southern part of the Zvezdel-Pcheloyad ore field within the Eastern Rhodopes of Bulgaria, near Krumovgrad. Geologically, the area is hosted within Paleogene volcanic complexes, specifically comprising a basalt-andesite complex and a dacite-rhyolite dike complex that cut through local metamorphic and sedimentary basements. Mineralization occurs primarily as ore veins and metasomatic bodies formed at medium to low temperatures under shallow to moderate depths. The mineralogy is dominated by lead and zinc sulfides, notably fine- to medium-grained sphalerite along with wurtzite, galena, quartz, barite, and occasional skarn xenolith assemblages containing garnet and pyroxene. Systematic exploration and detailed resource assessment of the deposit were conducted from 1970 through 1991, leading to active mining operations that have since wound down as part of the broader restructuring of Bulgaria's mining sector.

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