mineral

Iron-rich sulfide ore, likely pyrite-bearing gossan

Pyrite (FeS₂), possibly mixed with iron oxides/hydroxides and other sulfides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark brown-black, metallic to earthy luster with brassy yellow patches and iridescent tarnish; likely Mohs hardness 6–6.5 for pyrite, generally lacking obvious cleavage. The porous, weathered surface suggests oxidation and variable specific gravity, commonly around 4.5–5 for pyrite-rich material.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Iron-rich sulfide ore, likely pyrite-bearing gossan
Scientific name: Pyrite (FeS₂), possibly mixed with iron oxides/hydroxides and other sulfides
Category: mineral
Identified: August 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common irregular specimen; potentially $50–$150 if confirmed to contain attractive crystals or unusual iridescent mineralization.

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

Likely formed in hydrothermal veins or sulfide-rich sedimentary ore, then exposed to weathering that oxidized the outer surface into a gossan. The exact age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector specimen and potential ore indicator; pyrite is used industrially as a sulfur source and historically for sulfuric-acid production, but this weathered piece has little commercial value.

Geological facts

Iridescent purple, blue, and gold tarnish can develop on sulfide minerals through surface oxidation. Yellow metallic areas may be pyrite, while the dark matrix could include iron oxides, marcasite, chalcopyrite, or other sulfides.

Field identification & locations

Look for dense weight, metallic reflections, brassy cubic or granular crystals, and a dark streak; pyrite leaves a greenish-black to brown-black streak, unlike gold’s yellow streak. Avoid grinding or acid testing without protection because sulfide dust and oxidation products can be hazardous.