mineral

Pyrite

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale brass-yellow, highly metallic. Luster: Metallic, gleaming. Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Indistinct. Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Pale brass-yellow, highly metallic
Luster: Metallic, gleaming

Identified August 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale brass-yellow, highly metallic. Luster: Metallic, gleaming. Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Indistinct. Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0.

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, from hydrothermal veins to sedimentary rocks and coal deposits, often precipitated from aqueous solutions.

Uses & applications

Historically used to strike fire, currently used in the manufacture of sulfur and sulfuric acid, and popular as a mineral specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Widely known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to gold, though pyrite is much harder, more brittle, and leaves a greenish-black streak.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its brassy yellow color, cubic crystal habits, high density, and dark streak. Found worldwide with notable deposits in Spain, Peru, and the USA.