mineral
Pyrite
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, brass-yellow color, metallic luster, cubic crystal system, indistinct cleavage, and specific gravity around 5.0.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Pyrite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness of 6-6.5 on the Mohs scale, brass-yellow color, metallic luster, cubic crystal system, indistinct cleavage, and specific gravity around 5.0.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic deposits through the reaction of iron and sulfur under varying temperature conditions.
Uses & applications
Historically used for striking fire, currently utilized in sulfur and sulfuric acid production, and popular as a mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its superficial resemblance to gold, though it has a darker streak and harder texture.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its brassy metallic luster, high density, and cubic crystal habits; found worldwide in sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rock formations.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous