mineral
Pyrite
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs); Color: Brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic/pyritohedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Brass-yellow
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs); Color: Brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic/pyritohedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0
Formation & geological history
Formed in high and low temperature hydrothermal veins, as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks, and in sedimentary environments (reducing conditions); found across all geological ages.
Uses & applications
Major source of sulfur and iron ore; used in the production of sulfuric acid; used in jewelry (as marcasite) and as a physical grounding stone for collectors.
Geological facts
Known as 'Fool's Gold' because of its metallic luster and yellow hue. It can cause 'pyrite disease' in fossils, where the mineral reacts with moisture and oxygen to expand and destroy the specimen.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its brassy color, cubic habit, and black-green streak (gold has a yellow streak). Found worldwide in coal beds, limestone, and quartz veins.
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Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
![Green Apatite on Albite (Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]) — mineral](https://media.rockidentification.com/2391a63f-fb20-47d5-af9a-2035851eb32e-thumbnail.jpg)
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral