mineral
Pyrite (fool’s gold)
Pyrite, iron disulfide (FeS₂)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectBrassy-gold metallic luster with blocky, reflective crystal faces. Mohs hardness 6–6.5; cubic crystal system, typically no prominent cleavage; specific gravity about 5.0.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Pyrite (fool’s gold) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Brassy-gold metallic luster with blocky, reflective crystal faces. Mohs hardness 6–6.5; cubic crystal system, typically no prominent cleavage; specific gravity about 5.0.
Formation & geological history
Forms when iron and sulfur combine in low-oxygen settings, including hydrothermal veins and sedimentary rocks. Pyrite occurs across a wide range of geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used as a source of sulfur for sulfuric acid and collected as a common mineral specimen; historically used to produce sparks.
Geological facts
Its metallic appearance can resemble gold, but pyrite is harder and more brittle. The specimen appears to be a small cluster of intergrown crystals.
Field identification & locations
Look for brassy color, cubic faces, and brittle fracture; unlike gold, pyrite can leave a dark greenish-black streak. Common worldwide in veins, coal beds, and sedimentary formations.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous