mineral
Pyrite in Quartz Matrix
Iron Sulfide (FeS2) embedded in Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-6.5 for pyrite and 7 for quartz on the Mohs scale, metallic brass-yellow luster for pyrite combined with vitreous white/gray quartz, opaque, uneven fracture, specific gravity around 4.9-5.2 for pyrite.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Pyrite in Quartz Matrix in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6-6.5 for pyrite and 7 for quartz on the Mohs scale, metallic brass-yellow luster for pyrite combined with vitreous white/gray quartz, opaque, uneven fracture, specific gravity around 4.9-5.2 for pyrite.
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal vein deposition where mineral-rich hot fluids precipitate minerals into rock fractures over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Used as mineral specimens for collectors, decorative items, and historically as a source of sulfur and iron.
Geological facts
Pyrite is famously known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its metallic golden sheen, which has tricked many prospectors throughout history.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its brassy yellow metallic luster, high density, and brittle nature. Found worldwide in sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks.
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
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
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary