mineral
Pyrite
Iron Disulfide (FeS2)
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Pale brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic/pyritohedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8–5.0
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Pale brass-yellow
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Pale brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic/pyritohedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8–5.0
Formation & geological history
Forms in high and low-temperature hydrothermal veins, by magmatic segregation, in contact metamorphic deposits, and in sedimentary rocks as a primary or authigenic mineral.
Uses & applications
Source of sulfur and iron (though sulfur often weakens the iron); previously used to create sparks in wheel-lock firearms; widely used in jewelry (as marcasite) and as a collector specimen.
Geological facts
Commonly known as "Fool's Gold" because Its metallic luster and brassy yellow hue cause it to be mistaken for gold by inexperienced prospectors.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass, unlike gold) and its greenish-black streak when rubbed against a streak plate. Commonly found in coal beds and association with quartz veins.
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Mineral/Rock
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Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
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Epidote
Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)
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