Pyrite with Calcite

specimen number:
2062169

location:
Groveland Mine, Dickinson Co., Michigan, USA

description:
Bright golden lustrous cubic crystals of pyrite to 0.5 cm in size across the top of matrix with crystallized calcite. In good condition. An excellent locality example for the species. Collected in 1997.

The Groveland Mine, located in Felch Township within Dickinson County, Michigan, was a significant iron ore operation situated in the Felch Mountain Range. Geologically, the deposit is hosted within the Middle Huronian Vulcan Iron Formation, consisting of metamorphosed sedimentary rocks including jaspilite and hematite-magnetite schist. The ore body was characterized by its fine-grained, lean iron content, which required advanced processing techniques to create a marketable product. Historically, the mine first opened in 1891, but saw sporadic activity due to the complex nature of the ore until the Hanna Mining Company modernized the site in the mid-20th century. Between 1959 and 1981, Groveland operated as a large-scale open-pit mine and pioneering pelletizing facility, significantly contributing to the regional economy during the peak of post-war steel production. Following its closure in 1981 due to changing market conditions, the site underwent extensive reclamation and is now recognized as a recreation area.

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