Abraded Pyrite Crystals from the Witwatersrand Gold Mines

J. J. Frankel
Department of Geology, University of Natal, Durban

Summary: Metamorphosed dyke rocks in Witwatersrand gold mines carry pyrite crystals of unusual appearance. These crystals, particularly along the dyke margins, show curved and scratched surfaces that cut across crystal faces. The abrasion of the crystals is due to movement of dyke material under pressure. There is some suggestion of surface flow on the abraded surfaces. No deformation or granulation was obtained in laboratory experiments on pyrite crystals. Pressure shadows around the pyrite are described.

Mineralogical Magazine; March 1957 v. 31; no. 236; p. 392-401; DOI: 10.1180/minmag.1957.031.236.06
© 1957, The Mineralogical Society
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