mineral
Pyrite in Slate or Shale
Iron Sulfide (FeS2) in Argillaceous Matrix
Hardness 6.0-6.5 for pyrite (2-3 for matrix), metallic to vitreous luster, cubic or pyritohedral crystal system, pale brass-yellow to sparkling golden color on dark grey host rock, specific gravity ~5.0 for pyrite.
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Physical properties
Hardness 6.0-6.5 for pyrite (2-3 for matrix), metallic to vitreous luster, cubic or pyritohedral crystal system, pale brass-yellow to sparkling golden color on dark grey host rock, specific gravity ~5.0 for pyrite.
Formation & geological history
Formed in low-oxygen sedimentary environments where organic matter decays and reacts with dissolved iron and sulfur, or via hydrothermal fluid interaction with shale/slate deposits.
Uses & applications
Pyrite is mined as a source of sulfur and sulfuric acid, acts as an ore indicator for gold and copper, and is popular among rock collectors for its metallic luster and crystal forms.
Geological facts
Pyrite is famously known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its metallic yellow appearance. Despite its name, pyrite sometimes contains small traces of actual gold trapped within its crystal lattice.
Field identification & locations
Look for brassy metallic crystals or glittering veins embedded in dark grey fine-grained host rock. Commonly found in slate quarries, shale beds, and coal seams globally.
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