mineral

Pyrite

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (often cubic or pyritohedral); Cleavage: Poor/indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.2.

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

Identified July 5, 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 Mohs scale; Color: Pale brass-yellow to golden; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (often cubic or pyritohedral); Cleavage: Poor/indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.2.

Formation & geological history

Formed in a variety of geological settings through hydrothermal veins, as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks, in contact metamorphic rocks, and in sedimentary rocks (shales and coal) under reducing conditions.

Uses & applications

Historically used as a source of sulfur and sulfuric acid. Today, it is primarily used as a collector mineral, in jewelry (often incorrectly called 'marcasite'), and sometimes in the manufacturing of lithium batteries.

Geological facts

Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its resemblance to real gold. Unlike gold, pyrite is brittle and leaves a greenish-black streak when rubbed on a porcelain plate. It can spark when struck against steel.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its brassy color, cubic crystal habits, and high hardness (it cannot be scratched by a copper penny, unlike gold). Found worldwide, with notable deposits in Peru, Spain, and the USA.