Calaverite

Well-defined Calaverite crystals on matrix from the Cripple Creek District, Teller County, Colorado, USA. The specimen shows yellow to brassy metallic Calaverite occurring as sharp, blocky to platy crystals embedded in a pale gangue matrix, typical for this classic gold–telluride locality.

Calaverite is a gold telluride mineral, belonging to the telluride mineral group, and is one of the most important ore minerals of gold in telluride-rich deposits. The Cripple Creek District represents the world’s most famous and historically significant locality for Calaverite, producing some of the finest and best-documented specimens known.

The mineral forms in low- to moderate-temperature hydrothermal veins, genetically linked to alkaline igneous activity. Calaverite from Cripple Creek is particularly valued for its crystal development and association with other tellurides and native gold.

Calaverite is considered rare in well-crystallized specimens, especially on matrix. It is generally stable under normal collection conditions, though careful handling is recommended due to the softness of the crystals.

Typical associated minerals at Cripple Creek include quartz, fluorite, pyrite, sylvanite, krennerite, native gold.