Pyrite
Pyrite – a natural stone
Pyrite is a mineral classified as a sulfide and consists of atoms of iron and sulfur. Its name comes from the Greek word “pyrites,” meaning “sparkling,” referring to the fact that pyrite sparkles when struck with a hard object. Due to its golden color, it is also called “fool’s gold.” Considering the chemical composition, pyrite is sometimes mistaken for marcasite. Pyrite mineral can be found in virtually all types of rocks. Pyrite deposits occur in many places around the world, such as Italy, the USA, Spain, Peru, Mexico, Russia, Romania, and Sweden. Pyrite is often mined as a by-product of the extraction of other metals such as copper, lead, gold, or zinc. In its structure, pyrite stone often contains traces of gold, copper, nickel, cobalt, silver, and zinc. The hardness of pyrite on the Mohs scale is 6.0-6.5, and its density is 4.95 to 5.10 g/cm³. Among its characteristic features are shell-like fracture, lack of cleavage, and regular crystallographic arrangement.
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Pyrite – color
Pyrite stones most commonly occur in brass, gold, brass-yellow, golden-yellow, or light yellow color. Because pyrite occurs in dense crystal structures, it forms unique patterns on its surface. A characteristic feature of pyrite is its metallic luster and black streak. Due to its color, it has sometimes been mistaken for gold. On some specimens of pyrite, a dark coating can be observed, such as brownish-red rust, which is iron oxide (rust).
Pyrite – application
The mineral pyrite has a wide range of applications. Since ancient times, it has been used, for example, to kindle fire or make tools, amulets, and talismans. Pyrite stone is also used to make mineral paints or as a polishing powder. Pyrite stones are also used in industry in the production of sulfuric acid. Pyrite is also a valued and sought-after collector’s stone. However, it is primarily an attractive decorative stone and jewelry stone. Pyrite in jewelry is used, among other things, to create unique earrings, rings, or necklaces. Pyrite looks very good when combined with other natural stones such as onyx, lapis lazuli, or rock crystal. In our offer, you will find both specimens and pairs of pyrite.
