Rock Identifier
Pyrite and Fluorite on Quartz (Matrix Specimen) (Iron Disulfide (FeS2) and Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) with Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)) — mineral
mineral

Pyrite and Fluorite on Quartz (Matrix Specimen)

Iron Disulfide (FeS2) and Calcium Fluoride (CaF2) with Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: Pyrite 6-6.5, Fluorite 4, Quartz 7; Color: Brass-yellow (Pyrite), sea-foam green/blue (Fluorite), clear/gray (Quartz); Luster: Metallic to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubes) and Trigonal.

Hardness
Pyrite 6-6
Luster
Metallic to vitreous
Identified More mineral

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Physical properties

Hardness: Pyrite 6-6.5, Fluorite 4, Quartz 7; Color: Brass-yellow (Pyrite), sea-foam green/blue (Fluorite), clear/gray (Quartz); Luster: Metallic to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubes) and Trigonal.

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes in medium-to-high temperature mineral veins. Often associated with volcanic activity or sedex-type deposits. Specimens of this specific habit (green fluorite with cubic pyrite) are frequently found in late-stage mineralizations.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector's mineral specimen. Large decorative clusters are used in interior design and by metaphysical practitioners. Pyrite is an ore of sulfur; Fluorite is used as a flux in steel making.

Geological facts

Pyrite is famously known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its metallic luster and gold-like color. Fluorite is the only mineral that has given its name to a physical property: fluorescence. This combination of minerals is highly aesthetic and sought after in large cabinet sizes.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the cubic crystal forms of the brassy pyrite and the translucent, soft green octahedral or cubic fluorite. High-quality clusters like this are commonly found in the Xianghualing or Shangbao mines in Hunan Province, China.