mineral

Pyrite

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic, octahedral, pyritohedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0

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

Identified May 3, 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 Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic, octahedral, pyritohedral); Cleavage: Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.8-5.0

Formation & geological history

Forms in diverse environments including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Common in hydrothermal veins and as replacement deposits in sedimentary sequences. Found in rocks of all geological ages.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as an ore of sulfur for sulfuric acid production. Also used as a collector specimen, in costume jewelry (marcasite jewelry), and historically in firearms ignition mechanisms.

Geological facts

Known famously as 'Fool's Gold' because its color and high density lead novice prospectors to mistake it for real gold. Unlike gold, pyrite is brittle and leaves a black to greenish-black streak when rubbed on ceramic.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct metallic brassy color, hardness (it can scratch glass), and cubic crystal habits. Found globally with major deposits in Peru, Spain, Italy, and the USA.