mineral

Iron-rich sulfide-bearing rock, likely pyrite-rich shale or limonite-goethite specimen

Likely pyrite (FeS₂) with oxidation products goethite/limonite (FeO(OH)·nH₂O), possibly in shale or quartz matrix

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Metallic brassy-gold and silver-gray surfaces with earthy yellow-brown weathering; pyrite is Mohs 6–6.5, cubic crystal system, metallic luster, and no true cleavage, while goethite/limonite are softer (about 4–5.5) and dull to earthy.

Identified August 25, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich sulfide-bearing rock, likely pyrite-rich shale or limonite-goethite specimen
Scientific name: Likely pyrite (FeS₂) with oxidation products goethite/limonite (FeO(OH)·nH₂O), possibly in shale or quartz matrix
Category: mineral
Identified: August 25, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common rough specimen; $50–$200+ if it proves to contain well-formed pyrite crystals or has documented provenance.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Pyrite commonly forms in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary environments; exposed sulfides oxidize into goethite and limonite. The specimen’s exact age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Pyrite is collected and used historically for sulfur and sulfuric-acid production; iron oxides are pigments and iron ores. This rough piece has modest specimen value unless locality or crystal form is exceptional.

Geological facts

The bright gold color can resemble native gold, but pyrite is harder and commonly has angular or cubic forms; oxidation produces its brown-yellow coating.

Field identification & locations

Look for a heavy specimen, metallic luster, dark streak, and possible cubic faces; a streak test, hardness test, and specific-gravity or chemical test would confirm identification. Common worldwide in sedimentary basins and hydrothermal mineral districts.