Pyrite
Image: “Jon Zander (Digon3)" (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NamePyrite
Chemical FormulaFeS2
Mohs Hardness6.5
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustermetallic
Streak Colorgreenish-black to brownish-black
Cleavageindistinct/poor
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity5
Colorspale brass-yellow, golden
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalityWorldwide
Mineral GroupSulfides
Usessulfuric acid production, collector's specimens, historically as a source of sulfur and iron
Associated Mineralsquartz, calcite, galena, sphalerite, gold
Raritycommon
Description
This image displays a cluster of numerous small, shiny, pale brass-yellow pyrite crystals, exhibiting a distinct metallic luster.
Geological Context
Pyrite forms in a wide range of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, often found in hydrothermal veins, coal beds, and as a common accessory mineral in many ore deposits.
