2.2" Manganoan Calcite Crystal Cluster and Pyrite Association - Peru

This is a cluster of pink manganoan (manganese-bearing) calcite crystals from the Pachapaqui mining district in Áncash, Peru. Under short and long wave UV, the calcite crystals fluoresce a vibrant pink-orange color. The contrast of the pink calcite with the metallic pyrite is quite nice.


About Manganoan Calcite

Manganoan Calcite, also known as Mangano Calcite or Pink Calcite, is a variety of calcite rich in manganese, giving it a distinctive pink color that ranges from soft pastel to vibrant rose hues. The presence of manganese not only colors the mineral but often creates fluorescent qualities under UV light, where Manganoan Calcite emits a lovely pink or red glow. This mineral is usually found in massive, granular forms or in well-defined rhombohedral crystal structures, with a silky or vitreous luster.

Primarily sourced from locations like Peru, Bulgaria, and China, Manganoan Calcite is valued both for its beauty and metaphysical properties.

About The Huanzala Mine

The Huanzala Mine in Peru, located in the Huallanca district of the Huánuco region, is one of the world’s most famous mineral-producing mines. Nestled in the Andes Mountains at high elevations, this mine is renowned for its high-quality and vividly crystallized mineral specimens, especially pyrite, galena, and sphalerite. The pyrite crystals from Huanzala are particularly notable for their large size, sharpness, and brilliant metallic luster, often exhibiting cubic or pyritohedral shapes that make them highly prized among collectors. In addition to pyrite, the mine produces other well-crystallized minerals, including fluorapatite, quartz, sphalerite and chalcopyrite, each renowned for clarity and intricate formations.

Operational since the early 20th century, Huanzala is primarily an industrial source of lead and zinc. However, its mineral specimens have attracted worldwide attention, positioning it as an important site for mineral collectors. The mine’s extreme altitude and challenging terrain make it difficult to access, adding to the allure and rarity of its minerals.
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DETAILS
SPECIES
Calcite var. Manganoan Calcite & Pyrite
LOCATION
Huanzala Mine, Bolognesi Province, Áncash, Peru
SIZE
2.2 x 1.5"
CATEGORY
SUB CATEGORY
ITEM
#195839