mineral
Pyrite in Matrix (likely Quartz or Coal)
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9–5.2.
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Pale brass-yellow to golden
- Luster
- Metallic
Identified More mineral →
Explore Pyrite in Matrix (likely Quartz or Coal) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9–5.2.
Formation & geological history
Formed in variety of geological environments: hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks under reducing conditions, and contact metamorphic deposits. Often associated with quartz or coal beds in this dark matrix form.
Uses & applications
Historically used as a source of sulfur and sulfuric acid. Today, it is primarily used in commercial jewelry (as marcarsite), as a minor ore of iron, and as a popular collector's specimen.
Geological facts
Known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its resemblance to real gold. Unlike gold, pyrite is brittle and creates sparks when struck against steel, which led to its name derived from the Greek word 'pyr' meaning fire.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its brassy color, cubic crystal habits, and brittle nature (gold is soft and malleable). It leaves a greenish-black streak on a porcelain plate, whereas gold leaves a yellow streak.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous