mineral

Pyrite-bearing sulfide ore, possibly pyrrhotite-rich

Pyrite (FeS₂) with likely pyrrhotite (Fe₁₋ₓS), within a dark sulfide-rich host rock

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark gray to black, metallic-luster specimen with brassy-yellow sulfide patches and weathered pale areas; likely opaque, dense, and granular. Pyrite has Mohs hardness 6–6.5 and cubic crystals, while pyrrhotite is softer (3.5–4.5) and commonly weakly magnetic; exact identification requires testing.

Identified September 5, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Pyrite-bearing sulfide ore, possibly pyrrhotite-rich
Scientific name: Pyrite (FeS₂) with likely pyrrhotite (Fe₁₋ₓS), within a dark sulfide-rich host rock
Category: mineral
Identified: September 5, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $10–$50 for a common hand specimen; $50–$200+ if crystals, unusual mineral associations, or documented ore locality are present.

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

Formed in hydrothermal veins, magmatic sulfide bodies, or metamorphosed massive-sulfide deposits through precipitation of iron sulfide minerals, generally from Precambrian to younger geological settings. Surface oxidation produces the pale cream, brown, or rusty alteration visible here.

Uses & applications

Collected as an ore specimen and used historically as a source of sulfur and iron; sulfide ores may contain copper, nickel, cobalt, or precious metals. Attractive pieces are sold for mineral collecting rather than jewelry because sulfides tarnish and can weather.

Geological facts

Brassy pyrite is popularly called “fool’s gold,” but pyrrhotite is typically bronze-brown and may be magnetic. The image alone cannot reliably distinguish pyrite from chalcopyrite or other sulfides.

Field identification & locations

Look for metallic luster, high density, brassy color, and possible magnetism; a streak test, hardness test, and acid assay help confirm identity. Common sources include Iberian, Canadian, Scandinavian, and major volcanogenic massive-sulfide districts.