Where is Pyrite with Chlorite and Sphalerite found?
FeS2 (Pyrite), (Mg,Fe)3(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2·(Mg,Fe)3(OH)6 (Chlorite Group), (Zn,Fe)S (Sphalerite)
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Open the appPyrite with Chlorite and Sphalerite occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Pyrite with Chlorite and Sphalerite
Kuroko Deposits, Japan
Classic VMS deposits known for their polymetallic sulfide ores, including pyrite, sphalerite, chalcopyrite, and galena, often with chloritic alteration.
Broken Hill, Australia
A world-class SEDEX deposit famous for its massive lead-zinc-silver mineralization, where sphalerite and galena are abundant, often with pyrite and chlorite in the host rocks.
Flin Flon Greenstone Belt, Canada
Numerous VMS deposits containing significant pyrite, sphalerite, and chalcopyrite, with associated chloritic alteration zones.
Sullivan Mine, British Columbia, Canada
Another prominent SEDEX deposit, rich in lead, zinc, and silver, with pyrite and chlorite as common associated minerals.
Various Mesothermal Gold Deposits
While primarily gold-focused, many mesothermal gold deposits contain significant pyrite and sphalerite, with chlorite being a common alteration mineral in the surrounding wall rock.
Collecting tips
- Look for Hydrothermal Alteration. The presence of chlorite often indicates hydrothermal alteration. Look for green-colored zones in host rocks, especially around quartz veins or shear zones, which may host sulfide mineralization.
- Identify Sulfide Minerals. Pyrite's brassy luster and cubic habit are distinctive. Sphalerite's resinous luster and variable color (often dark brown to black) are key. A streak test can help differentiate dark sphalerite (brown streak) from other dark sulfides.
- Check for Associated Minerals. This assemblage frequently occurs with quartz, calcite, chalcopyrite, galena, and sometimes arsenopyrite. The presence of these minerals can further confirm a mineralized environment.
- Consider Geological Context. Focus exploration in areas known for VMS, SEDEX, or other hydrothermal ore deposits. Understanding the regional geology and known mineral occurrences is crucial.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Pyrite: Brassy yellow. Sphalerite: Yellow-brown to black. Chlorite: Green.
- Luster:
- Pyrite: Metallic. Sphalerite: Resinous to submetallic. Chlorite: Vitreous to pearly.
- Streak:
- Pyrite: Greenish-black to brownish-black. Sphalerite: Yellow-brown to brown. Chlorite: White to pale green.
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