mineral
Pyrite
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.0-6.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Brass-yellow to pale metallic gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal system: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific gravity: 4.95-5.10; Streak: Greenish-black to brownish-black
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Brass-yellow to pale metallic gold
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.0-6.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Brass-yellow to pale metallic gold; Luster: Metallic; Crystal system: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific gravity: 4.95-5.10; Streak: Greenish-black to brownish-black
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological settings including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, metamorphic environments, and as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks. Often precipitates from sulfur-rich hydrothermal fluids.
Uses & applications
Historically used as a source of sulfur and sulfuric acid, and in early radio detectors. Currently used primarily as a popular mineral specimen, decorative stone, and occasionally in jewelry (often marketed as marcasite).
Geological facts
Nicknamed 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to real gold. Unlike real gold, pyrite is brittle, much harder, leaves a dark streak instead of a yellow one, and forms sharp geometric cubic or pyritohedral crystals with striations.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its metallic luster, brass-yellow hue, cubic crystal habit with striations on face planes, high density, and hard, brittle nature. Famous locations include Navajún in La Rioja, Spain, as well as Peru, Italy, and the USA.
