mineral

Pyrite

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic, octahedron, pyritohedron); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8 - 5.0

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden
Luster: Metallic

Identified April 5, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic, octahedron, pyritohedron); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8 - 5.0

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological settings, including hydrothermal veins, as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks, in sedimentary environments with low oxygen, and in metamorphic rocks. It can form in deposits of all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Historically used as a source of sulfur and sulfuric acid. Today, it is used in the manufacture of lithium batteries, as a semiconductor material, and as a popular collector's mineral and in costume jewelry.

Geological facts

Widely known as 'Fool's Gold' because its color and metallic luster frequently led inexperienced prospectors to mistake it for real gold. Pyrite can actually spark when struck against steel or flint.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its brassy color, cubic crystal habit, and blackish-green streak on a porcelain plate (real gold has a yellow streak). Commonly found in Peru, Spain, Italy, and the USA. Collectors value well-defined crystal shapes.