mineral
Pyrite
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, brass-yellow color, metallic luster, and isometric crystal system with cubic or octahedral habit.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, brass-yellow color, metallic luster, and isometric crystal system with cubic or octahedral habit.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic deposits through the reaction of iron and sulfur in reducing environments.
Uses & applications
Historically used to strike fire, currently used in sulfur and sulfuric acid production, and popular as a mineral specimen in collections.
Geological facts
Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to real gold, though it is harder and leaves a greenish-black streak.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its brassy metallic luster, high hardness that scratches glass, and brittle cubic crystals; found worldwide.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Limonite
FeO(OH)•nH2O
mineral
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