mineral
Pyrite
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Pale brass-yellow
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0
Formation & geological history
Formed in a wide variety of geological environments, from sedimentary rocks to hydrothermal veins and metamorphic rocks, often under reducing conditions.
Uses & applications
Historically used to strike fire, currently used in the manufacture of sulfur and sulfuric acid, and popularly collected as a mineral specimen or used in jewelry.
Geological facts
Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its metallic luster and pale brass-yellow hue, which has historically fooled many inexperienced prospectors.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its brassy yellow color, high specific gravity, metallic luster, and characteristic cubic or pyritohedral crystal forms, often found worldwide in sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rock formations.
