Chalcopyrite & Galena with Calcite and Sphalerite – Osikovo Orebody, Madan, Bulgaria

An attractive multi-mineral specimen from the Osikovo Orebody, Deveti Septemvri Complex, Madan Orefield, Bulgaria, featuring prominent brassy-gold chalcopyrite associated with silvery galena, dark sphalerite, and contrasting white calcite crystals.

The specimen displays a particularly appealing combination of metallic sulphide minerals against the lighter calcite, with well-defined crystal surfaces and strong metallic luster. The association is characteristic of the famous lead-zinc deposits of the Madan mining district, easily one of my favourite localities (I love metallic minerals).

The original North Star Minerals label records the specimen as mined in 1997. It was acquired by the late Bill Rouslin and resided in his collection until now, so there is useful collection provenance here.

Mineral: Chalcopyrite, Galena, Calcite & Sphalerite
Locality: Osikovo Orebody, Deveti Septemvri Complex, Madan Orefield, Bulgaria
Crystal System: Tetragonal (Chalcopyrite); Cubic (Galena); Trigonal (Calcite); Cubic (Sphalerite)
Mineral Class: Sulfides with Carbonate
Provenance: Ex Bill Rouslin #418; North Star Minerals; Mined 1997
Dimensions: 8 × 5.5 cm