mineral

Pyrite

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale brass-yellow. Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Indistinct. Specific gravity: 4.8-5.0.

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

Identified July 29, 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 the Mohs scale. Color: Pale brass-yellow. Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Indistinct. Specific gravity: 4.8-5.0.

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, from hydrothermal veins to sedimentary rocks, often precipitated from reducing aqueous solutions at low to high temperatures.

Uses & applications

Historically used to strike fire, currently used in the manufacture of sulfur and sulfuric acid, and popular as a mineral specimen in crystal healing and collections.

Geological facts

Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to gold, pyrite exhibits distinct cubic or pyritohedral crystal shapes and striations on its faces.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its brass-yellow metallic luster, high hardness (scratches glass), brittle nature, and greenish-black streak. Found worldwide, notably in Peru, Spain, and the United States.