Dolomite with Pyrite

specimen number:
2341331

location:
Iouriren Mine, Afella Ighir Caidat, Tafraout Cercle, Tiznit, Souss-Massa, Morocco

description:
A loose cluster consisting of colorless lustrous slightly translucent but mostly opaque rhombohedral dolomite crystals. One primary crystal is present, this measuring 3.7 x 2.8 x 1.7 cm in size. Many smaller crystals are attached on all sides. Crystallized pyrite and minor quartz is present. No points of attachment, this is complete all around and in great condition. From 2006, the specimen comes with a previous label from the collection of Jan Erik Larsen.

Located in the Anti-Atlas mountain range of the Souss-Massa region in southwestern Morocco, the Iouriren Mine features complex Precambrian basement rocks dominated by granite intrusions, schists, and hydrothermally altered quartz veins. The localized geological structures formed rich mineralized vein deposits containing quartz, gold, and secondary copper minerals created through intense ancient hydrothermal activity. Historically, the area near Tafraout has experienced localized artisanal mining and mineral exploration, drawing miners and mineral collectors who seek distinct quartz matrix specimens and associated copper carbonates. Today, the site remains noted among mineral enthusiasts for its structural geology and localized geological history within Morocco's mineral-rich Anti-Atlas belt.

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