mineral

Polished pyrite specimen

Pyrite (FeS₂), cubic iron disulfide

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brassy yellow to bronze metallic luster with rounded polished surfaces and likely cubic crystal remnants; Mohs hardness 6–6.5, no prominent cleavage, and specific gravity about 5.0. The dark areas may reflect tarnish or matrix inclusions.

Identified September 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Pyrite forms in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic environments through sulfur-rich, reducing reactions involving iron. It ranges from Precambrian to modern geological settings.

Uses & applications

Collected as a metallic mineral and used historically as a sulfur source; rarely used commercially today because oxidation can produce sulfuric acid. Attractive polished pieces have modest decorative value.

Geological facts

Its brassy appearance earned the nickname “fool’s gold,” but pyrite is harder, more brittle, and less malleable than gold. Polished pyrite may tarnish and should be kept dry.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by metallic brassy color, high density, brittleness, and lack of a yellow streak; a streak test leaves a greenish-black to brown-black mark. Common locations include Peru, Spain, Italy, China, and the United States.