This specimen features a jet-black, dense Shale matrix hosting a disc-shaped formation of golden, metallic Pyrite crystals. Some have assumed that Pyrite Suns are pyritized replacements of a fossil (sand dollar), but that’s not the case: The Pyrite grew between layers in the Shale, and due to extreme pressure the Pyrite was compressed and forced to grow laterally, radiating outward, thus creating disc-shaped formations, and in some instances like this specimen, a near-perfect circle. The color, contrast and symmetry is amazing, and that along with the added fern fossilization all makes for a superb and aesthetic specimen in excellent condition.

Location: Sparta, Randolph County, Illinois, USA

Size: 36 x 24 x 3.5 cm