Collection: Pyrite

Pyrite , often nicknamed fool's gold , is a very common mineral with the chemical formula FeS₂ (iron disulfide).

🔬 Main Features

• Name : Pyrite

• Chemical formula : FeS₂

• Crystal system : Cubic

• Hardness (Mohs scale): 6 to 6.5

• Density : Approx. 5 g/cm³

• Color : Metallic brass yellow

• Shine : Shiny metallic

• Line (dust on porcelain): Greenish black to brown

💎 Why is it called “fool’s gold”?

Because its golden color and metallic luster can easily make it pass for gold, especially to novice prospectors. However:

• Pyrite is harder than gold.

• It is much less dense .

• It crumbles under blows while gold is malleable.

🌍 Where can we find it?

Pyrite is very common and forms in many geological environments:

• In sedimentary , metamorphic and igneous rocks

• In hydrothermal deposits

• In association with other minerals such as galena, sphalerite, calcite or quartz

⚠️ Chemical properties and precautions

• Pyrite oxidizes in the open air : it can produce sulfuric acid when it comes into contact with water and oxygen (oxidation reaction).

• This reaction can pollute soil and water (a problem known as acid mine drainage ).

• It should not be stored in very humid places, especially in its raw state.

🏗️ Uses

• Formerly used to light fire (sparks by percussion)

• Sometimes used to extract sulfur

• Collector's item for its perfect cubic shape

• Please note: it does not have precious value like noble metals.

📏 Interesting Facts

• Its crystals can form superb natural cubes or dodecahedrons which are very aesthetic.

• Some fossils are pseudomorphosed into pyrite : organisms are replaced by this mineral over time.