Emerald with Pyrite

Gorgeous emerald crystal on matrix, spattered with golden pyrite.  This is an incredible multi-mineral specimen from the only real emerald locality that produces specimens of this quality.  The emerald crystal is very well defined and terminated, with excellent luster, clarity, and color saturation.  It's perched on the matrix in  a great position, encased in multiple pyrite crystals that are also well formed with distinct and recognizable crystal faces.  This piece is a stunner!  From the Muzo Mine, Colombia.  Acquired Denver, 2024.
 
We recommend mounting this as pictured with putty on the Small Acrylic Base, both included with purchase.
 
Emerald is a variety of the mineral beryl, known for its rich green color due to trace amounts of chromium and sometimes vanadium.  Emeralds are typically found in hydrothermal and metamorphic environments, with notable deposits in Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia. Highly prized since long ago, emeralds have been used in fine jewelry for centuries.  As a collectible mineral, emerald specimens of freestanding crystals of high quality are quite rare.  Most of the best crystals are cut for jewlery, makine raw pieces with high clarity very hard to come by.