mineral

Pyrite

Iron Disulfide (FeS2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: brass-yellow, opaque; Luster: metallic; Crystal structure: isometric/cubic; Cleavage: indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0

Hardness: 6-6
Color: brass-yellow, opaque
Luster: metallic

Identified June 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: brass-yellow, opaque; Luster: metallic; Crystal structure: isometric/cubic; Cleavage: indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins, as a magmatic segregation, in contact metamorphic deposits, and in sedimentary rocks as a primary or authigenic mineral.

Uses & applications

Major source of sulfur for sulfuric acid production; historically used for firearms (wheellocks); used in jewelry (marcasite); popular specimen for collectors.

Geological facts

Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its resemblance to precious metals. It often occurs as perfect cubes or pyritohedrons (12-faced crystals).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its hardness (scratches glass) and dark green-black streak; real gold is soft (scratched by copper) and lacks a dark streak. Found globally, especially in Peru, Spain, and the USA.