mineral
Pyrite
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, brass-yellow metallic color, brilliant metallic luster, and cubic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, brass-yellow metallic color, brilliant metallic luster, and cubic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Formed in sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic environments through hydrothermal activity or low-temperature precipitation.
Uses & applications
Used historically to strike fire, in manufacturing sulfur and sulfuric acid, and popularly collected as a mineral specimen.
Geological facts
Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to real gold, though it has a darker streak and harder texture.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive brassy metallic gleam and cubic crystal habit; found worldwide in sedimentary rock formations and ore veins.
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Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Limonite
FeO(OH)•nH2O
mineral
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic