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

Identified July 31, 2026More mineral →

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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 settings, from sedimentary rocks to hydrothermal veins and metamorphic rocks, through low-temperature precipitation from aqueous solutions or high-temperature magmatic processes.

Uses & applications

Used historically for ignition of fire, manufacturing of sulfur and sulfuric acid, and popularly collected as a mineral specimen or used in jewelry.

Geological facts

Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to gold, pyrite frequently forms striking cubic or pyritohedral crystals.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified in the field by its brassy yellow color, metallic luster, high hardness (scratches glass, unlike real gold), and blackish-green streak.