mineral
Pyrite (Fool's Gold) Cube
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: Brass-yellow (often tarnished doll brown); Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.2
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Brass-yellow (often tarnished doll brown)
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5; Color: Brass-yellow (often tarnished doll brown); Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.2
Formation & geological history
Formed in high and low temperature hydrothermal veins, as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks, and in sedimentary environments through the reduction of sulfates by organic material.
Uses & applications
A major source of sulfur for producing sulfuric acid; used in costume jewelry (marcasite), electronics (lithium-pyrite batteries), and highly valued by mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its similarity to real gold, though it is much harder and more brittle. Famous cubic specimens are found perfectly formed in Navajún, Spain.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its perfect cubic shape, metallic luster, and the fact it will spark when struck with steel. Commonly found in Spain, Italy, Peru, and the USA.
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Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
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Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral
Epidote
Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)
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