mineral

Pyrite (Iron Pyrites)

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Brass-yellow, often weathered to dark brown or rusty; Lustre: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubes, pyritohedrons); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Brass-yellow, often weathered to dark brown or rusty

Identified June 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in diverse environments including magmatic segregation, hydrothermal veins, and as an authigenic mineral in sedimentary rocks. It is found in deposits ranging from Precambrian to recent times

Uses & applications

Historically used as a source of sulfur and for making sulfuric acid; used in radio receivers and jewelry (marcasite jewelry). Currently of interest for solar cell technology and as a collector's specimen

Geological facts

Commonly known as "Fool\'s Gold" due to its resemblance to gold, though it is much harder and more brittle. When struck against steel, it creates sparks, which gave it its name from the Greek word "pyr" meaning fire

Field identification & locations

Identify by its cubic shape, metallic luster, and greenish-black streak (unlike gold\'s yellow streak). It is often found in coal beds as well as quartz veins. Look for striated faces on cubic crystals