Pyrite
Pyrite · Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Cubic crystal system, typically forming cubic, pyritohedral, or octahedral crystals, often aggregated into clusters or nodular masses
Mineral Group
Sulfides
Chemical Formula
FeS2
Formation Process
Forms in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary environments through hydrothermal veins, magmatic segregation, or low-temperature precipitation
About This Crystal
A small metallic cluster showing brassy-yellow coloration with high metallic luster and an aggregated, granular crystal habit composed of tiny interlocking cubic and pyritohedral faces
Physical Characteristics
Brass-yellow body color, greenish-black streak, indistinct cleavage, conchoidal to uneven fracture, specific gravity of approximately 5.0, brittle tenacity, and metallic luster
Optical Properties
Opaque with a strong metallic luster, highly reflective, and isotropic (singly refractive)
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found worldwide, with notable deposits in Peru, Spain, Italy, and the United States
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, brittle toughness, sensitive to moisture which can cause oxidation and degradation over time
Care & Maintenance
Keep dry and store away from high humidity to prevent tarnishing and decomposition into iron oxides (sulfate rot); avoid water immersion and harsh chemical cleaners
Rarity & Value
Common mineral, affordable as mineral specimens, with value determined by crystal perfection, size, and matrix association
Special Characteristics
Known colloquially as Fool's Gold due to its deceptive metallic golden appearance, capable of producing sparks when struck against steel due to its hardness and friction
Lore & History
Historically used by ancient civilizations like the Incas and Greeks for amulets, mirrors, and fire-starting; in modern crystal healing, it is traditionally associated with abundance, vitality, and the solar plexus chakra