mineral
Pyrite
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, brassy yellow color with a metallic luster, and an isometric crystal system. It produces a greenish-black streak and exhibits conchoidal to uneven fracture with indistinct cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, brassy yellow color with a metallic luster, and an isometric crystal system. It produces a greenish-black streak and exhibits conchoidal to uneven fracture with indistinct cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments ranging from sedimentary rocks to hydrothermal veins and metamorphic rocks, typically crystallizing at low to high temperatures.
Uses & applications
Historically used to strike fire, currently used in the manufacture of sulfur and sulfuric acid, and popular among mineral collectors for its striking metallic cubes.
Geological facts
Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to actual gold, pyrite can occasionally contain trace amounts of actual gold within its structure.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its brassy yellow color, high specific gravity, metallic luster, and hard brittle crystal form. It is found worldwide, notably in Peru, Spain, and the United States.
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Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
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