mineral
Pyrite
Iron Sulfide (FeS2)
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.2
- Hardness
- 6-6
- Color
- Brass-yellow
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6-6.5 Mohs; Color: Brass-yellow; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 4.9-5.2
Formation & geological history
Formed in variety of geological settings including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and contact metamorphic deposits. Can form at both high and low temperatures.
Uses & applications
Used as a source of sulfur and sulfuric acid in industry. Popular as a decorative stone for collectors and in inexpensive jewelry (often called 'marcasite'). Historical use as a spark source in wheel-lock firearms.
Geological facts
Commonly known as 'Fool's Gold' due to its deceptive color. Unlike gold, it is brittle and will shatter if struck, and it leaves a greenish-black streak when rubbed on a streak plate.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its hardness (scratches glass, unlike real gold which is soft), metallic brassy luster, and cubic or pyritohedral crystal habits. Found worldwide in mining districts.
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Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
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Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral
Epidote
Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)
mineral