$20.00
A miniature mining scene: pewter ore carts filled with shimmering pyrite, set upon a polished blue agate slice. Approximately 2″ × 1″. A compact handcrafted treasure that blends geology, metal artistry, and symbolic depth—perfect for collectors, decor lovers, or thoughtful gifts.
In stock
Artistry & Craftsmanship
This statuette, Pewter Ore Carts on Agate Slice, captures the romance and ruggedness of mining heritage in miniature. The pewter ore carts are finely cast with authentic detailing—the shape, wheels, carts themselves—then filled with pyrite to suggest raw mineral cargo. These are mounted atop a slice of blue agate that has been polished to enhance its natural sheen. Together, the metalwork, the crystalline sparkle of pyrite, and the rich blue tones of agate form a composition that’s both decorative and evocative.
Geology of Materials
Blue Agate: Agate is a variety of chalcedony (microcrystalline quartz). Blue agate develops its coloration through trace mineral impurities (often iron or other metals) and can form in cavities or fissures of volcanic rock where silica-rich fluids have time to crystallize. Its hardness (~7 on Mohs scale) makes it durable, and its banded patterns and translucence are prized in gemstone and decorative art.
Pyrite (Fool’s Gold): A naturally occurring iron sulfide (FeS₂). It forms in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, or as a byproduct of biological and geological processes. It’s known for its metallic luster and sparkly appearance.
Pewter: A tin-based alloy (traditionally with tin, copper, sometimes a bit of antimony or other metals). Artisans melt the pewter, pour into molds shaped like ore carts, then cool, clean, and polish the metal to highlight its gleam. Pewter allows fine detail and a softer luster than many polished metals, giving pieces like this both character and durability.
Interesting Facts
The combination of ore carts + pyrite evokes traditional mining and early industrial aesthetic—symbolic of extraction, resource, earth’s hidden treasures.
Pyrite has been used historically as a spark-starter (pyrite & flint) and is often mistaken for gold in ancient lore (“fool’s gold”).
Blue agate, depending on its source, may display interesting wave-like banding, occasional feathering, or zones of translucency when backlit.
Metaphysical Qualities
Agate (especially blue agate) is often associated with calming energies, communication, clarity, and emotional balance. It can serve as a stabilizer of energies and thought.
Pyrite is traditionally seen as a stone of protection, abundance, courage, and confidence. It’s thought to amplify one’s will and shield against negative or disruptive energy.
The imagery of mining ore carts can symbolically reflect uncovering hidden value, hauling one’s inner resources, journeying into depths to bring forth treasures (literal or metaphorical).
Dimensions & Display
At approx. 2 inches long & high × 1 inch wide, this piece is compact yet richly detailed. It’s ideal for display on shelves, desks, curio cabinets, or as part of mineral collections. The polished blue agate base provides stability and contrast; the pyrite adds sparkle; the pewter work gives structure and narrative.
Summary
Bring home a piece where natural beauty and artisan metalwork meet mining imagery. The Pewter Ore Carts on Agate Slice is a unique fusion of blue agate’s geological story, pyrite’s metallic flash, and skilled pewter craftsmanship—perfect for collectors, geology lovers, and anyone who appreciates symbolic decor with depth.
| Weight | 2 oz |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 2 × 1.5 × 1.75 in |
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