Pyrite
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Mineral NamePyrite
Chemical FormulaFeS2
Mohs Hardness6
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustermetallic
Streak Colorgreenish-black to brownish-black
Cleavagepoor/indistinct
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity5.02
Colorsbrassy yellow, golden
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalityWidespread globally; notable occurrences include Navajún, Spain and various deposits in Peru and Italy.
Mineral GroupSulfides
Usesproduction of sulfuric acid, collector specimens, minor source of iron, historical source of sulfur
Associated Mineralsquartz, chalcopyrite, galena, sphalerite, gold, calcite
Raritycommon
Description
This specimen displays a cluster of intergrown, shiny, brassy-yellow pyrite crystals, exhibiting distinct cubic and pyritohedral forms, creating a sparkling, massive aggregate.
Geological Context
Pyrite is a common mineral found in a wide range of geological environments, including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks (often as concretions), metamorphic rocks, and igneous rocks, typically forming under reducing conditions.
