mineral

Tiny rounded metallic-looking pebble, possibly pyrite or a metal-rich mineral

Uncertain from image; possible pyrite (FeS₂), chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂), or magnetite (Fe₃O₄)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Very small gray-bronze, rounded grain with subdued metallic luster; hardness and crystal structure cannot be reliably determined photographically. The apparent smoothness may reflect abrasion or tumbling rather than natural crystal form.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Tiny rounded metallic-looking pebble, possibly pyrite or a metal-rich mineral
Scientific name: Uncertain from image; possible pyrite (FeS₂), chalcopyrite (CuFeS₂), or magnetite (Fe₃O₄)
Category: mineral
Identified: August 16, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Typically less than $1 as an isolated grain; exceptional identified micro-specimens may sell for roughly $5–$20.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

If pyrite or chalcopyrite, it likely formed in hydrothermal veins or sulfide-rich sedimentary rocks; magnetite commonly forms in igneous, metamorphic, or sedimentary environments. Geological age is indeterminate.

Uses & applications

Unusual grains may be retained as curiosities or mineral-collecting specimens; pyrite and chalcopyrite are important sulfide ores, while magnetite is an iron ore.

Geological facts

The specimen is only a few millimeters across, so scale and surface texture strongly limit identification. A streak, magnetism test, and hardness test would be more diagnostic than color alone.

Field identification & locations

Check whether it attracts a magnet, leaves a black or greenish-black streak on unglazed porcelain, and scratches glass; avoid destructive testing if valuable. Exact identification requires a macro photograph or laboratory analysis.