Komorany, Usti Region, Bohemia, Czech Republic

Another special month coming in June! We have excellent specimens of Marcasite from the classic locality of Komorany, Bohemia, Czech Republic. While not on matrix, each pieces contains a number of excellently formed crystals with bright brassy luster. The word “Marcasite” stems from the Arabic word for Pyrite. Marcasite and Pyrite are quite similar, but crystallize differently, making it a distinct mineral species. Marcasite is somewhat softer than Pyrite. Both are iron sufides.

This mineral is known for its growth habit known as ‘cock’s comb’. The crystals appear like a rooster’s head crest, hence the name. The habit is very distinctive and cannot be mistaken for any other mineral. Some of the crystals are diamond-shaped or rhombic-shaped plates. Some have broad or narrow blades to elongated and irregular-shaped whisker-like crystals.

Marcasite is steeped in lore and tradition. It is thought to be able to discharge negative energy, improve one’s communication abilities, and protect those who perform dangers jobs. Marcasite has been known for thousands of years to the Greeks, Mayans, and Chinese. Marcasite is said to have a calming and a healing effect. Many cultures viewed Marcasite as a mineral to attract wealth or inspire creativity.