mineral

Small metallic-gold mineral fragment, possibly pyrite

Pyrite (FeS₂), if confirmed

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Brassy metallic luster, opaque, irregular fractured surface; pyrite hardness is 6–6.5 Mohs, cubic crystal structure, and specific gravity about 5.0. The image is insufficient to distinguish pyrite from chalcopyrite, gold, or slag.

Identified August 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Pyrite forms in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary or metamorphic rocks through sulfide mineralization, from Precambrian to modern geological settings. Natural gold forms in quartz veins and placer deposits; metallic slag may be human-made.

Uses & applications

Pyrite is collected and historically used as a sulfur and iron source; gold is valuable for jewelry and electronics. A fragment this small has little value unless verified as native gold.

Geological facts

Pyrite is commonly called “fool’s gold,” but it is harder and more brittle than gold. Chalcopyrite is softer and often more intensely yellow or iridescent.

Field identification & locations

Test streak on unglazed porcelain: pyrite gives a greenish-black streak, gold a yellow streak, and chalcopyrite a dark streak; do not rely on appearance alone. Professional testing by hardness, density, magnetism, and XRF is recommended.