SPHALERITE, CHALCOPYRITE, QUARTZ, MANGANOCALCITE. SAN JOSE DE HUAYLLAY DISTR. CERRO DE PASCO PROV, PERU (small cabinet)

Sphalerite, a sulfide mineral represented by the chemical formula (Zn, Fe)S, serves as the principal ore for zinc extraction. This mineral occurs in various types of deposits, predominantly within sedimentary exhalative, Mississippi-Valley type, and volcanogenic massive sulfide formations. It is commonly associated with other minerals such as galena, chalcopyrite, pyrite, as well as calcite, dolomite, quartz, rhodochrosite, and fluorite.

Chalcopyrite is a mineral composed of copper, iron, and sulfur, recognized as the primary source of copper ore. Its chemical composition is represented by the formula CuFeS2, and it crystallizes within the tetragonal system. The mineral exhibits a brassy to golden yellow hue and possesses a hardness rating of 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, with a distinctive green-tinged black streak.

Private Peruvian Collection, Very rare as the mines closed decades ago. Former Steve Moon Collection.