mineral
Pyrite
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, brass-yellow color, metallic luster, isometric crystal system, and dark greenish-black streak.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, brass-yellow color, metallic luster, isometric crystal system, and dark greenish-black streak.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and replacement deposits across a wide range of geological temperatures.
Uses & applications
Used historically for ignition, in the production of sulfur and sulfuric acid, and popularly as a mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Known colloquially as 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to real gold, pyrite frequently forms striking cubic or pyritohedral crystals.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified in the field by its brassy metallic luster, high hardness that scratches glass, and brittle fracture.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous