mineral

Pyrite

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (often cubic or pyritohedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Pale brass-yellow
Luster: Metallic

Identified July 15, 2026More mineral →

Explore Pyrite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (often cubic or pyritohedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0

Formation & geological history

Forms in diverse environments including hydrothermal veins, as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks, in contact metamorphic rocks, and in sedimentary rocks such as shale and coal. It has formed throughout Earth's geological history.

Uses & applications

Historically used as a source of sulfur and sulfuric acid. Today, it is used in jewelry (as marcasite), as a grit for grinding wheels, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Commonly known as "Fool's Gold" due to its visual similarity to real gold. Unlike gold, it is brittle and will spark when struck against steel, a property that led to its name derived from the Greek word 'pyr' meaning fire.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its brassy color, hardness (it can scratch glass, whereas gold cannot), and its greenish-black streak when rubbed on a porcelain plate. Found worldwide, with notable deposits in Spain, Peru, and Italy.