mineral

Iron-rich sulfide ore (likely pyrite-bearing rock)

Likely pyrite (FeS₂) with dark host rock; exact identification is uncertain from the image alone.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Rough, irregular specimen with brassy-gold patches and dark gray-brown areas; pyrite has metallic luster, cubic crystals, Mohs hardness 6–6.5, and specific gravity about 5.0. The visible gold color alone cannot distinguish pyrite from other sulfides or iron oxides.

Identified September 25, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich sulfide ore (likely pyrite-bearing rock)
Scientific name: Likely pyrite (FeS₂) with dark host rock; exact identification is uncertain from the image alone.
Category: mineral
Identified: September 25, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $2–$20 USD for a common, unidentified hand specimen; value depends on confirmed minerals, size, and crystal quality.

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

Sulfide minerals commonly form in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary deposits, or metamorphic settings; the specimen’s geological age and formation environment cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Pyrite and related sulfide ores are collected and may be mined for sulfur or associated metals; specimens are also used for display, but this rough piece has no evident gem use.

Geological facts

Pyrite is often called fool’s gold, but it is harder and more brittle than native gold and commonly forms cubic crystals.

Field identification & locations

Check for metallic luster and brittle fracture; a streak test and professional mineral testing can help identify it. Pyrite occurs worldwide, including in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary rocks.