A cluster of bright octahedral pyrite crystals on a contrasting matrix. The bulk of pyrite specimens from this mine are packed clusters of crystals, but there is actually some space between them on this specimen.
Pyrite has long been a staple of the Peruvian mineral dealers, though since Fujimori's privatization program caused many mines to come under the control of foreign multinationals (Huanzala included) specimen production at many of the most famous mineral localities has severely slowed or stopped all together, a result of increased mechanization, better explosives, and changes in company policy. I often hear older collectors balking at the pyrite prices at shows-- once upon a time you could buy this stuff by the pound, but the fact is that even in Peru, you will not find them cheaply-- especially good ones.
This is an older piece from a collector in Peru, and an example of material that is no longer quite as plentiful as it once was.