The origin of the pyrrhotite in the Ankarvattnet massive sulphide deposit is discussed, based on chemical relations between the different mineralization types. A metamorphic genesis is rejected and a premetamorphic origin is alternatively suggested, which is in agreement with similar ideas for the origin of the pyrrhotite in other deposits. The pyrrhotite is thought to have formed in the stringer zone to a massive pyritic layer with similar formation mechanisms as for volcanogenic massive sulphide deposits. The recognition of a stringer zone mineralogy provides better possibilities to understand the physico-chemical character of the ore forming environment.