mineral
Pyrite Sun
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
Hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic luster, brassy yellow color resembling gold, specific gravity of 5.0.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, metallic luster, brassy yellow color resembling gold, specific gravity of 5.0.
Formation & geological history
Formed in carbonaceous shales and coal beds under low-temperature hydrothermal conditions, typically millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Mainly used as collector specimens, display items, and sometimes in jewelry due to their unique radiating shape.
Geological facts
Also known as pyrite dollars or coal brass, these radiating disks form perpendicularly to the bedding planes of shales.
Field identification & locations
Found predominantly in the Illinois coal mines (Sparta, Illinois), identified by their distinctive radial sunburst pattern.
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