metamorphic

Pyrite-bearing rock, likely pyrite schist or phyllite

Quartz–mica-rich metamorphic rock with disseminated pyrite (FeS₂); exact rock type cannot be confirmed from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray-brown, foliated-looking matrix with brassy metallic flecks. Pyrite has Mohs hardness 6–6.5 and cubic crystals; the host rock’s hardness and composition are not identifiable from the photo.

Identified September 29, 2026More metamorphic →

Explore Pyrite-bearing rock, likely pyrite schist or phyllite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Pyrite-bearing rock, likely pyrite schist or phyllite
Scientific name: Quartz–mica-rich metamorphic rock with disseminated pyrite (FeS₂); exact rock type cannot be confirmed from the image
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 29, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a common hand-sized specimen; more if the pyrite crystals are well-formed or the specimen has documented provenance.

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 when mineral-rich sediment was buried and metamorphosed, with pyrite crystallizing in the rock. Its age and precise formation setting cannot be determined visually.

Uses & applications

Primarily a collector specimen; pyrite is an ore of sulfur and historically a source of iron, though this rock is not necessarily economic ore.

Geological facts

Pyrite is iron disulfide, FeS₂, and is often called “fool’s gold.” Unlike gold, it is brittle and commonly forms angular or cubic crystals.

Field identification & locations

Look for brassy, opaque grains and a dark, possibly layered matrix; a streak test (pyrite gives a greenish-black streak) helps distinguish it from gold. Pyrite-bearing metamorphic rocks occur worldwide in ancient sedimentary and volcanic terrains.