mineral

Pyrite (fool’s gold)

Pyrite, FeS₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brassy gold color with strong metallic luster and blocky, intergrown crystals; Mohs hardness 6–6.5, cubic crystal system, no true cleavage, specific gravity about 5.0. The specimen appears to be a small natural pyrite cluster.

Identified October 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when iron and sulfur combine in low-oxygen settings, including hydrothermal veins and sedimentary rocks; pyrite spans many geological ages. Its age and exact locality cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used as a source of sulfur and historically for sulfuric-acid production; attractive crystal clusters are collected and sometimes used decoratively, but it is not generally a jewelry gemstone.

Geological facts

Its metallic gold appearance earned the name “fool’s gold,” but pyrite is harder and more brittle than native gold and can form distinctive cubes.

Field identification & locations

Look for a brassy color, metallic sparkle, and brittle, angular crystals; a streak test yields dark greenish-black powder. Common worldwide in veins, shales, coal beds, and other sedimentary rocks.