Pyrite
Image: “Jon Zander (<a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Digon3" title="User:Digon3">Digon3</a>)" (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NamePyrite
Chemical FormulaFeS2
Mohs Hardness6
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustermetallic
Streak Colorgreenish-black to brownish-black
Cleavageindistinct
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity5
Colorspale brass-yellow, golden
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalityWorldwide, notable localities include Spain, Peru, Italy, and the USA.
Mineral GroupSulfides
Usessulfuric acid production, collector specimens, minor source of iron
Associated Mineralsquartz, calcite, galena, sphalerite, gold
Raritycommon
Description
This image shows a cluster of pyrite crystals, exhibiting their characteristic metallic luster and brass-yellow color. The crystals display well-formed cubic and pyritohedral habits, with some showing striations.
Geological Context
Pyrite forms in a wide variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It commonly occurs in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary shales, and coal beds, often forming under reducing conditions.
