mineral
Pyrite (likely)
Iron disulfide, FeS₂; commonly called fool’s gold
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectBrassy yellow, metallic luster, granular/massive texture; Mohs hardness 6–6.5, cubic crystal system, poor cleavage, and specific gravity about 5.0. The irregular specimen appears heavily weathered or naturally granular rather than showing distinct cubes.
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Physical properties
Brassy yellow, metallic luster, granular/massive texture; Mohs hardness 6–6.5, cubic crystal system, poor cleavage, and specific gravity about 5.0. The irregular specimen appears heavily weathered or naturally granular rather than showing distinct cubes.
Formation & geological history
Forms in reducing, sulfur-rich environments, including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, coal beds, and metamorphic settings. Individual crystals can form over broad geological timescales, commonly from Paleozoic to younger deposits.
Uses & applications
Used historically as a sulfur source and minor iron ore; today it is chiefly a teaching, collecting, and decorative mineral. It is not generally valuable as gold ore unless chemically assayed.
Geological facts
Pyrite can resemble gold but is harder, more brittle, and usually paler; it produces a dark streak, whereas gold leaves a yellow streak. Oxidation may generate sulfuric acid and rusty iron oxides.
Field identification & locations
Common localities include Peru, Spain, Italy, China, the United States, and Canada. Confirm with a streak test, hardness test, and ideally density or chemical analysis; image identification is provisional because chalcopyrite or pyrrhotite can look similar.
