mineral

Pyrite

Iron Pyrite (FeS2)

Hardness: 6.0-6.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Pale brass-yellow to brassy metallic grey. Luster: Metallic, shiny. Crystal Structure: Isometric/cubic, often forming striated cubes, pyritohedrons, or granular masses. Specific Gravity: 4.95-5.10. Cleavage: Poor/indistinct.

Hardness: 6
Color: Pale brass-yellow to brassy metallic grey
Luster: Metallic, shiny

Identified July 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological settings, including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks (such as black shale and coal seams), metamorphic rocks, and contact metamorphic zones. Formed through precipitation of sulfur- and iron-rich solutions.

Uses & applications

Historically used as a source of sulfur for manufacturing sulfuric acid. Occasionally used in jewelry (marcasite jewelry). Mostly collected as mineral specimens and used in educational sets.

Geological facts

Famous for its nickname 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to real gold. However, pyrite is much harder and more brittle than gold, and leaves a dark greenish-black streak rather than a golden streak.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its metallic luster, pale brass-yellow to steel-grey color, high density, cubic crystal cleavage or granular aggregation, and brittle nature under pressure. Widely found worldwide, with famous localities in Spain (Navajún), Peru, Italy, and the USA.