mineral

Pyrite (on host rock)

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Brass-yellow, metallic gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic/pyritohedron); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.2

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Brass-yellow, metallic gold
Luster: Metallic

Identified June 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Brass-yellow, metallic gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic/pyritohedron); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.2

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological settings, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments. It commonly forms through hydrothermal deposition or in stagnant water environments where bacteria reduce sulfates to sulfides.

Uses & applications

Major ore for sulfuric acid and sulfur. Historically used in firearms (wheel-locks). Today, it is used in lithium batteries, as a semiconductor material, and as a popular specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Nicknamed 'Fool's Gold' because its color and metallic luster frequently led inexperienced prospectors to believe they had found gold. However, it is much harder than gold and brittle rather than malleable.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'greenish-black' streak on a porcelain plate (gold leaves a yellow streak) and its brassy color. Found globally, with notable deposits in Spain, Peru, and the USA. It often occurs as perfect cubes or metallic coatings on rock.