mineral
Pyrite (Iron Pyrite)
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Brass-yellow, metallic gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.95-5.10.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Brass-yellow, metallic gold
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Brass-yellow, metallic gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.95-5.10.
Formation & geological history
Formed in a variety of geological settings including magmatic segregation, hydrothermal veins, and sedimentary rocks through the precipitation of iron and sulfur in oxygen-poor environments.
Uses & applications
Historically used as a source of sulfur and sulfuric acid; today used in jewelry (as marcasite), in car batteries, and as a popular collector specimen for its cubic geometry.
Geological facts
Also known as Fool's Gold due to its resemblance to precious metal; it can actually contain small amounts of actual gold; it was used in early firearms like the wheel-lock to create sparks.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its 'cubic' shape, metallic luster, and blackish-green streak on a porcelain plate; common in coal beds and quartz veins globally.
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Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Biotite Schist (Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]) — metamorphic](https://media.rock.id/9ca564b5-bc87-402b-965a-69b21f9aa6bf-thumbnail.jpg)
Biotite Schist
Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]
metamorphic