mineral

Pyrite

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale brass-yellow to brownish-black. Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Indistinct. Specific gravity: 4.8-5.0.

Hardness: 6-6
Color: Pale brass-yellow to brownish-black
Luster: Metallic

Identified August 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Pale brass-yellow to brownish-black. Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Indistinct. Specific gravity: 4.8-5.0.

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, ranging from sedimentary rocks to hydrothermal veins and metamorphic rocks, often created by reducing conditions in marine environments.

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to gold, though pyrite is much harder, lighter, and leaves a greenish-black streak.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its brassy yellow metallic luster, high hardness (scratches glass), and cubic or botryoidal crystal habits. Found worldwide, with notable deposits in Peru, Spain, and the USA.