mineral

Pyrite in Quartz

Iron Sulfide (FeS2) embedded in Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 6-6.5 for pyrite, 7 for quartz. Color: Brass-yellow metallic patches within a white/gray matrix. Luster: Metallic for pyrite, vitreous for quartz. Crystal System: Isometric for pyrite, trigonal for quartz. Specific gravity: ~5.0 for pyrite, 2.65 for quartz.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Brass-yellow metallic patches within a white/gray matrix
Luster: Metallic for pyrite, vitreous for quartz

Identified August 1, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins and metamorphic environments where iron-rich fluids precipitate sulfide minerals alongside silica, often dating from various geological eras.

Uses & applications

Used as a mineral specimen for collectors, in jewelry, and historically as a source of sulfur and iron.

Geological facts

Pyrite is commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its brassy metallic luster and golden hue, which has historically fooled many prospectors.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified by its distinctive metallic brass-yellow color, high specific gravity, and lack of true gold malleability. Commonly found worldwide in association with quartz veins.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

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Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate

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Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)

FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)

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Septarian Pebble

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Schist

Metamorphic

Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)

Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)

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