Pyrite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NamePyrite
Chemical FormulaFeS₂
Mohs Hardness6
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustermetallic
Streak Colorgreenish-black
Cleavageindistinct
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity5
Colorspale brass-yellow, golden
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalityQuiruvilca Mine, La Libertad Department, Peru
Mineral GroupSulfides
Usessulfuric acid production, industrial, collector specimens
Associated Mineralsquartz, calcite, galena, sphalerite, chalcopyrite
Raritycommon
Description
This specimen displays lustrous, pale brass-yellow pyrite crystals, exhibiting characteristic striations and a twinned habit, possibly interpenetrant cubes or pyritohedra, with some minor matrix.
Geological Context
Pyrite forms in a wide range of geological environments, including hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks, often associated with other sulfide minerals.
