mineral

Pyrite

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (often cubic or pyritohedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.2.

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

Identified June 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (often cubic or pyritohedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.2.

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological settings including hydrothermal veins, by segregation from magmas, as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks, and in sedimentary rocks through metamorphic or diagenetic processes.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as an ore of sulfur for sulfuric acid production; historically used in firearms (wheel-locks) and currently used in jewelry (marcasite jewelry) and as a collector's mineral.

Geological facts

Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' because its color and luster have led many prospectors to mistake it for real gold. Unlike gold, it is brittle and will powder when crushed rather than flatten.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'fool's gold' appearance, cubic crystal habits, and its greenish-black streak (gold has a yellow streak). It is often found associated with quartz, calcite, and other sulfides globally.