mineral
Pyrite
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Pale brass-yellow/gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Pale brass-yellow/gold
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Pale brass-yellow/gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0
Formation & geological history
Formed in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. It creates from hydrothermal fluids or through biological activity in lack-of-oxygen marine sediments.
Uses & applications
Source of sulfur for sulfuric acid production; occasionally used in jewelry (marcasite); potential source of gold/lithium in specific ores; historically used to spark fires.
Geological facts
Known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its resemblance to gold; it is the most common sulfide mineral and can produce sparks when struck against steel.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its cubic crystal habit, high hardness (gold is soft), and blackish-green streak. Common worldwide in mining districts.
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral