mineral
Pyrite
Iron Pyrite (FeS2)
Hardness: 6.0-6.5 Mohs. Color: Brass-yellow, pale gold. Luster: Metallic. Crystal Structure: Cubic or pyritohedral. Cleavage: Poor/indistinct. Specific Gravity: ~5.0. Streak: Greenish-black to brownish-black.
- Hardness
- 6
- Color
- Brass-yellow, pale gold
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.0-6.5 Mohs. Color: Brass-yellow, pale gold. Luster: Metallic. Crystal Structure: Cubic or pyritohedral. Cleavage: Poor/indistinct. Specific Gravity: ~5.0. Streak: Greenish-black to brownish-black.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including high and low-temperature hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, metamorphic rocks, and coal beds through sulfur reduction processes.
Uses & applications
Historically used as a source of sulfur and sulfuric acid. Today, it is primarily collected as a mineral specimen, used in ornamental items, and occasionally in solar panels and batteries.
Geological facts
Nicknamed 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to real gold. Unlike real gold, which is soft and malleable, pyrite is hard, brittle, and leaves a dark streak.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its metallic brass-yellow color, cubic crystal habits, brassy luster, high density, and dark greenish-black streak. Commonly found in Peru, Spain, Italy, and North America.
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