Pyrite
Image: Seldonsan (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Mineral NamePyrite
Chemical FormulaFeS2
Mohs Hardness6
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustermetallic
Streak Colorgreenish-black
Cleavageindistinct/poor
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity5
Colorspale brass-yellow, golden-yellow
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalityWorldwide, notable localities include Spain, Peru, and various sites in Italy.
Mineral GroupSulfides
Usessulfuric acid production, collector specimens, minor iron ore
Associated Mineralsquartz, calcite, galena, sphalerite, chalcopyrite
Raritycommon
Description
Pyrite typically forms brass-yellow to golden-yellow crystals, often exhibiting cubic, pyritohedral, or octahedral forms with a distinct metallic luster. It is commonly found as well-formed crystals or massive aggregates.
Geological Context
Pyrite forms in a wide range of geological environments, including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks, often in oxygen-poor conditions. It is a common accessory mineral in many ore deposits and can be found associated with other sulfides.
