mineral
Pyrite
Iron Disulfide (FeS2)
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs); Color: Brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Brass-yellow
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 (Mohs); Color: Brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0
Formation & geological history
Formed in diverse geological environments including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary deposits through the reduction of sulfates, and as an accessory mineral in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Uses & applications
Used commercially for the production of sulfur dioxide and sulfuric acid. It is popular among mineral collectors and occasionally used in jewelry (often incorrectly called 'marcasite').
Geological facts
Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' because its color and metallic luster often led prospectors to mistake it for real gold. Unlike gold, pyrite is brittle and leaves a greenish-black streak.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its cubic crystal habit, brassy color, and high hardness (it can scratch glass). It frequently occurs in coal seams and black shales. Found worldwide, with notable deposits in Peru, Spain, and Italy.
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sedimentary
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Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic