mineral

Pyrite (fool’s gold)

Pyrite, FeS₂; isometric iron sulfide

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brassy yellow-silver metallic luster with granular, glittering crystals. Hardness 6–6.5 Mohs; typically brittle, with uneven fracture and no prominent cleavage; specific gravity about 5.0.

Identified October 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Brassy yellow-silver metallic luster with granular, glittering crystals. Hardness 6–6.5 Mohs; typically brittle, with uneven fracture and no prominent cleavage; specific gravity about 5.0.

Formation & geological history

Forms in a range of settings, including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic deposits. It occurs from ancient rocks to modern sediments; the specimen’s age and source cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used historically as an iron and sulfur source and today mainly as a mineral specimen; it has limited use in jewelry because it can tarnish and fracture.

Geological facts

Pyrite is iron sulfide, not gold; its metallic shine and pale brass color give it the nickname fool’s gold.

Field identification & locations

Look for a brass-colored metallic surface and brittle grains; pyrite commonly occurs worldwide in veins, coal beds, and sedimentary rocks. The small, rough specimen cannot be confirmed from appearance alone.