Natural Pyrite Sandstone Sphere - Height: 7.5 cm - Width: 7.2 cm- 580 g
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Selected by Georgia Foteinou
Holds BSc in geology and post-graduate qualifications in geochemistry.
Estimate € 170 - € 200
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Natural Pyrite Sandstone sphere from China, 7.5 cm high, 7.2 cm wide and 6.6 cm deep, weighing 580 g, displayed on an acrylic stand.
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Description from the seller
Natural Pyrite Sandstone Sphere – Iron Sulfide Concretion from China
A fascinating natural sandstone sphere from China, distinguished by its spectacular concentric layers enriched with natural pyrite (FeS₂). This remarkable geological formation is the result of millions of years of sedimentary processes, mineral precipitation, and erosion, creating a sculptural object that appears almost artificially carved despite being entirely natural.
The sphere originated as a pyrite-rich concretion within sandstone deposits. As groundwater circulated through the sediment, iron and sulfur combined to form pyrite, concentrating around a central nucleus. Over geological time, the surrounding softer sandstone weathered away more rapidly than the pyrite-rich layers, while water erosion gradually sculpted the concretion into its characteristic rounded form.
Its distinctive ridged surface reveals successive mineralized growth layers, resembling the rings of a planet or the contours of an ancient topographic map. The subtle metallic sparkle of countless microscopic pyrite crystals contrasts beautifully with the darker sandstone matrix, giving the specimen exceptional depth and texture.
Unlike polished mineral spheres, this piece retains its completely natural surface, preserving every cavity, ridge, and crystalline detail created by geological processes. The result is a striking decorative mineral that perfectly balances raw natural beauty with sculptural elegance.
Displayed on the included acrylic stand, this sphere is an exceptional addition to any mineral collection, cabinet of curiosities, or contemporary interior, where its unusual formation and planetary appearance make it an immediate conversation piece.
A rare example of nature's ability to transform simple sandstone and pyrite into a true geological sculpture, celebrating millions of years of erosion, mineralization, and natural artistry.
Seller's Story
Shipping Restrictions and Right to Cancel the Sale
We reserve the right to cancel a sale if the purchased item cannot be legally exported, imported, or shipped to the destination country. This includes, but is not limited to, items subject to regulatory restrictions (such as materials protected under CITES), customs limitations, local prohibitions, or logistical constraints related to the weight, size, or nature of the parcel when carriers do not accept shipments to specific geographic areas.
It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify any applicable restrictions in their country before placing a bid. Should shipping prove impossible for legal or operational reasons beyond our control, the order will be cancelled and any payment made will be refunded in accordance with the platform’s procedures.
About Latiaxis S.r.l.
Latiaxis was founded in Italy by Bruno Briano and family, combining over 40 years of passion and expertise in natural and ethnographic science collections. The diverse offerings include decorative shells, natural stones, museum-grade fossils, taxidermy, and tropical corals to serve a wide audience, from museums and private collectors to enthusiasts and interior designers.
Our services extend beyond sales, providing consulting, evaluation, and tailored delivery, all while adhering to international trade laws for endangered species. We are fully licensed and authorized to source and offer all the specimens in our collection and for protected species, we strictly comply with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). CITES is an international agreement between governments, designed to ensure that trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. By adhering to these stringent regulations, especially within European countries, we demonstrate our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, ensuring the responsible sourcing and sale of all items. This dedication provides our clients with the assurance that they are acquiring specimens through legal, environmentally conscious, and trustworthy channels.
Natural Pyrite Sandstone Sphere – Iron Sulfide Concretion from China
A fascinating natural sandstone sphere from China, distinguished by its spectacular concentric layers enriched with natural pyrite (FeS₂). This remarkable geological formation is the result of millions of years of sedimentary processes, mineral precipitation, and erosion, creating a sculptural object that appears almost artificially carved despite being entirely natural.
The sphere originated as a pyrite-rich concretion within sandstone deposits. As groundwater circulated through the sediment, iron and sulfur combined to form pyrite, concentrating around a central nucleus. Over geological time, the surrounding softer sandstone weathered away more rapidly than the pyrite-rich layers, while water erosion gradually sculpted the concretion into its characteristic rounded form.
Its distinctive ridged surface reveals successive mineralized growth layers, resembling the rings of a planet or the contours of an ancient topographic map. The subtle metallic sparkle of countless microscopic pyrite crystals contrasts beautifully with the darker sandstone matrix, giving the specimen exceptional depth and texture.
Unlike polished mineral spheres, this piece retains its completely natural surface, preserving every cavity, ridge, and crystalline detail created by geological processes. The result is a striking decorative mineral that perfectly balances raw natural beauty with sculptural elegance.
Displayed on the included acrylic stand, this sphere is an exceptional addition to any mineral collection, cabinet of curiosities, or contemporary interior, where its unusual formation and planetary appearance make it an immediate conversation piece.
A rare example of nature's ability to transform simple sandstone and pyrite into a true geological sculpture, celebrating millions of years of erosion, mineralization, and natural artistry.
Seller's Story
Shipping Restrictions and Right to Cancel the Sale
We reserve the right to cancel a sale if the purchased item cannot be legally exported, imported, or shipped to the destination country. This includes, but is not limited to, items subject to regulatory restrictions (such as materials protected under CITES), customs limitations, local prohibitions, or logistical constraints related to the weight, size, or nature of the parcel when carriers do not accept shipments to specific geographic areas.
It is the buyer’s responsibility to verify any applicable restrictions in their country before placing a bid. Should shipping prove impossible for legal or operational reasons beyond our control, the order will be cancelled and any payment made will be refunded in accordance with the platform’s procedures.
About Latiaxis S.r.l.
Latiaxis was founded in Italy by Bruno Briano and family, combining over 40 years of passion and expertise in natural and ethnographic science collections. The diverse offerings include decorative shells, natural stones, museum-grade fossils, taxidermy, and tropical corals to serve a wide audience, from museums and private collectors to enthusiasts and interior designers.
Our services extend beyond sales, providing consulting, evaluation, and tailored delivery, all while adhering to international trade laws for endangered species. We are fully licensed and authorized to source and offer all the specimens in our collection and for protected species, we strictly comply with the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). CITES is an international agreement between governments, designed to ensure that trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. By adhering to these stringent regulations, especially within European countries, we demonstrate our commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, ensuring the responsible sourcing and sale of all items. This dedication provides our clients with the assurance that they are acquiring specimens through legal, environmentally conscious, and trustworthy channels.
Details
Main mineral
Natural Pyrite Sandstone
Mineral form
Sphere
Weight
580 g
Country of origin
China
Height
7.5 cm
Width
7.2 cm
Depth
6.6 cm
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