mineral

Pyrite

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, brass-yellow color, metallic luster, isometric crystal system, indistinct cleavage, and a specific gravity of around 5.0.

Identified July 30, 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 of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, brass-yellow color, metallic luster, isometric crystal system, indistinct cleavage, and a specific gravity of around 5.0.

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks, often precipitated from aqueous solutions at various temperatures.

Uses & applications

Historically used to strike fire, currently used in the manufacture of sulfur and sulfuric acid, and widely collected as mineral specimens and used in jewelry.

Geological facts

Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to gold, pyrite exhibits a brassy metallic sheen that often fools inexperienced prospectors.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its pale brass-yellow color, high specific gravity, dark streak (greenish-black to brownish-black), and relatively high hardness compared to actual gold.