mineral

Weathered metallic sulfide-bearing rock, possibly pyrite-rich ore

Tentatively pyrite (FeS₂) with iron oxides and host rock; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small irregular fragment with brassy gray-gold metallic patches and dull weathered surfaces. Pyrite has Mohs hardness 6–6.5, cubic crystal structure, metallic luster, and no prominent cleavage; apparent softness or greenish coating may indicate alteration minerals.

Identified September 14, 2026More mineral →

Explore Weathered metallic sulfide-bearing rock, possibly pyrite-rich ore in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Weathered metallic sulfide-bearing rock, possibly pyrite-rich ore
Scientific name: Tentatively pyrite (FeS₂) with iron oxides and host rock; exact identification requires testing
Category: mineral
Identified: September 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 for a small common fragment; $20–$100+ for well-formed crystals or attractive ore specimens.

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

Likely formed in hydrothermal veins or sedimentary ore deposits when sulfide-rich fluids precipitated iron sulfides. The specimen’s geological age cannot be determined from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Pyrite is collected, studied as an ore indicator, and historically used as a sulfur source; it has limited jewelry use. Common rough specimens are inexpensive.

Geological facts

A diagnostic test is a streak test: pyrite produces a greenish-black to brownish-black streak, unlike gold’s yellow streak. It is often called “fool’s gold,” though this fragment may be mixed or heavily weathered.

Field identification & locations

Common in hydrothermal veins, coal beds, and sedimentary rocks worldwide. Check for a dark streak, metallic brassy color, high density, and crystal faces; acid and magnetic tests should be performed cautiously.