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Ces millions d'histoires racontées par les minéraux, présentées par {name}


Georgia Foteinou

**Complimentary Specimens**
As a gesture of appreciation, winning lots with a final hammer price above €50 will include one small additional mineral offered entirely free of charge.

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Description:
What defines true presence in pyrite is not merely cubic symmetry, but perfection within that symmetry. Not a modified structure or a complex interplay of faces, but a crystal that expresses the ideal geometric form of pyrite with striking precision. This specimen from Navajún embodies that purity in an exceptional and visually commanding way.

At first glance, the crystal presents itself as a near perfect cube, with sharply defined faces and precise right angle intersections that reflect an almost mathematical accuracy. Unlike more complex pyrite formations, there is no significant pyritohedral modification here. Instead, the crystal remains faithful to its cubic system, showcasing the archetypal geometry that has made Navajún pyrite world famous.

The faces are remarkably flat and well developed, with subtle natural surface textures that confirm its geological origin. Minor micro irregularities and delicate growth features can be observed under close inspection, reinforcing that this is a natural crystal rather than a polished or artificial form. The edges are crisp, the vertices cleanly defined, and the overall structure conveys a rare level of natural perfection.

Under directional light, the metallic surface responds with strong reflectivity, shifting between bright gold and soft brass tones depending on angle and intensity. This optical behaviour enhances the geometric clarity of the cube, creating a powerful visual contrast between illuminated planes and shadowed edges.

The crystal rests naturally on a limestone rich matrix typical of the Navajún deposits. This pale, earthy base provides both geological context and aesthetic contrast, allowing the metallic brilliance of the pyrite to stand out even more prominently. The relationship between crystal and matrix is stable and visually balanced, adding to the overall display quality of the specimen.

Navajún, located in La Rioja, Spain, is internationally recognised as the world’s premier locality for cubic pyrite. The exceptional geological conditions of this deposit have allowed the formation of crystals with unparalleled sharpness and structural integrity, making them highly sought after by collectors and museums worldwide.

This specimen represents that legacy with clarity, precision, and natural elegance.

Specifications:
• Weight: 54.4 g
• Weight in carats: 272 ct
• Dimensions: 42 × 38 × 28 mm
• Origin: Navajún, La Rioja, Spain
• Mineral: Pyrite
• Chemical formula: FeS₂
• Crystal system: Cubic, isometric
• Crystal habit: Perfect cubic crystal
• Dominant geometry: Well defined cube with sharp edges
• Colour: Metallic gold to pale brass
• Transparency: Opaque
• Lustre: Strong metallic
• Surface features: Natural growth textures, smooth crystal faces
• Matrix: Limestone / marl matrix
• Condition: Natural crystal on matrix, untreated
• Oxidation: Very minor natural surface alteration

Notable Points:
• Near perfect cubic pyrite crystal with exceptional geometric precision
• Classic Navajún formation, globally recognised for crystal perfection
• Sharp edges and clean vertex definition
• Well developed flat crystal faces with natural growth textures
• Strong metallic lustre with high reflectivity
• Natural contrast between golden crystal and pale limestone matrix
• Stable and aesthetically balanced crystal on matrix
• Minimal oxidation preserving fresh appearance
• Iconic specimen representing textbook cubic pyrite
• High display and collector value due to form and locality

Collector’s Interest:
Navajún pyrite is widely regarded as the benchmark for cubic crystal perfection within the mineral world. Unlike most pyrite occurrences, where crystals display distortions or complex modifications, Navajún specimens are celebrated for their ability to form near ideal cubes with extraordinary sharpness and symmetry.

This specimen exemplifies that standard, presenting a crystal that closely approaches geometric perfection while retaining clear evidence of its natural formation. The presence of matrix further enhances its desirability, as it preserves the geological context and reinforces authenticity.

For collectors, such pieces occupy a unique space between mineral specimen and natural geometric object, appealing equally to aesthetic sensibility and crystallographic interest.

Lapidary Potential:
This specimen has no lapidary relevance. Its value lies entirely in its natural crystallographic perfection and its preservation on matrix.

Any attempt to alter, cut, or polish the crystal would irreversibly destroy its defining characteristics. As such, it is best appreciated as a natural mineral specimen, where its geometry, surface integrity, and geological origin remain fully intact.

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Shipping and Handling:
All orders are shipped by Portuguese National Post.
• Dispatch time: within 1 to 3 business days after payment confirmation to Catawiki
• Transit time with CTT service: between 5 to 7 business days within europe and worldwide, depending on destination national post.
• A tracking number is always provided

Photography and transparency:
All photographs are taken under controlled lighting conditions using a macro lens, carefully selected to present each specimen as accurately as possible.
No filters, colour enhancement, or artificial saturation are applied.
The lighting setup uses a calibrated 5500K light source, replicating neutral daylight to reveal natural tones, surface features, and internal characteristics. Under warmer or weaker indoor lighting, colours may appear slightly different, which is normal.
The purpose of this photographic process is documentation and representation, not visual enhancement. Images are intended to reflect the specimen faithfully as it appears under balanced natural light conditions.

Identification and ethics:
All specimens offered are natural and described to the best of our knowledge, based on direct sourcing, professional experience, and information provided by trusted suppliers working at the origin.
Every effort is made to ensure transparency and accuracy regarding identification, locality, and general characteristics, avoiding misleading statements about treatment, provenance, or nature.

Customs and import taxes:
Any customs duties, import fees, or local taxes applied by the destination country are entirely the responsibility of the winning bidder.
These charges are not included in the auction price or shipping cost and are determined by the buyer’s local authorities.

Guarantee and resolution:
Customer satisfaction is important. In the unlikely event of an issue such as loss, damage, or discrepancy, please contact us promptly through Catawiki’s messaging system.
Each case is handled individually and fairly, with appropriate solutions offered when justified.

Appreciation and commitment:
We sincerely thank you for your trust. Our work focuses on careful selection, accurate representation, and respectful presentation of mineral specimens with character and interest.
Each piece is chosen for its individual qualities rather than speculative or financial considerations. We aim to provide a transparent, reliable, and consistent experience for collectors at all levels.

With gratitude,
GemPulse Minerals 

Navajum, La Rioja, Espagne

Cristal de pyrite cubique sans défaut • 272 ct • Spécimen reposant dans du calcaire doré - Hauteur : 42 mm - Largeur : 38 mm- 54.04 g - (1)

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Cristal de pyrite cubique sans défaut • 272 ct • Spécimen reposant dans du calcaire doré - Hauteur : 42 mm - Largeur : 38 mm- 54.04 g - (1)

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