mineral
Pyrite in Quartz Matrix
Iron Sulfide (FeS2) with Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 6-6.5 for pyrite and 7 for quartz; brassy yellow to golden metallic luster; conchoidal fracture for quartz.
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Physical properties
Hardness 6-6.5 for pyrite and 7 for quartz; brassy yellow to golden metallic luster; conchoidal fracture for quartz.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary deposits through low-temperature precipitation from iron- and sulfur-rich solutions.
Uses & applications
Used in mineral specimen collecting, historical fire-starting, and minor industrial sulfuric acid production.
Geological facts
Commonly known as fool's gold due to its superficial resemblance to native gold.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its brassy metallic color, cubic crystal habits, and lack of malleability compared to actual gold.
