mineral

Pyrite

Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness: 6.0-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Brass-yellow to silvery-metallic; Luster: Metallic; Crystal system: Isometric/cubic; Cleavage: Poor/indistinct; Specific gravity: 4.95-5.10.

Hardness: 6
Color: Brass-yellow to silvery-metallic
Luster: Metallic

Identified July 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.0-6.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Brass-yellow to silvery-metallic; Luster: Metallic; Crystal system: Isometric/cubic; Cleavage: Poor/indistinct; Specific gravity: 4.95-5.10.

Formation & geological history

Forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks under reducing conditions, contact metamorphic deposits, and as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks.

Uses & applications

Historically used as a source of sulfur and sulfuric acid. Today, it is primarily popular as a mineral specimen, costume jewelry stone, and occasionally used in paper manufacturing and lithium batteries.

Geological facts

Nicknamed 'Fool's Gold' due to its bright brassy metallic sheen that often tricked novice miners into mistaking it for real gold. Unlike real gold, pyrite is brittle and leaves a greenish-black streak.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its brassy to silvery metallic luster, cubic or pyritohedral crystal habits, high density, and brittle nature. Commonly found in Peru, Spain, Italy, Russia, and the USA.