Pyrit Naturally Terminated Gastein Austia 190g

Mineral Name: Pyrite Chemical Formula: FeS2 - Iron Sulfide Color: Pyrite is known for its brassy to golden metallic luster, often resembling gold, which has earned it the nickname "fool's gold." The color may tarnish to a darker hue, and occasionally, pyrite may exhibit iridescence. Crystal System: Isometric Hardness: 6 - 6.5 on the Mohs scale Luster: Metallic Transparency: Opaque Specific Gravity: 4.95 - 5.10 Cleavage: Indistinct Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven Streak: Greenish-black to brownish-black Occurrences: Pyrite is widespread and can be found in various geological settings. It occurs in sedimentary rocks, metamorphic rocks, and hydrothermal veins. Pyrite is often associated with coal deposits, shale, limestone, and other sulfur-rich environments. Notable occurrences include Spain, Peru, Italy, the United States, and Canada. Notable Localities: Some famous pyrite localities include the Huanzala Mine in Peru, the Navajún in Spain, and the Eagle Mine in Colorado, USA. Formation: Pyrite forms under a range of geological conditions but is commonly associated with hydrothermal activity. It crystallizes in cubic or pyritohedral forms and often grows as aggregates or in well-defined crystals in voids and fractures within rocks. Unique Features: Pyrite crystals often exhibit a distinctive cubic or pyritohedral habit, and their metallic luster can make them appear similar to gold, leading to the nickname "fool's gold." The mineral may also display striations or other surface features, adding to its visual appeal. Pyrite's brassy color and cubic crystal structure make it easily recognizable. Uses: While pyrite is not valuable as a source of gold, it has been historically used for various purposes. In the past, pyrite was utilized in the production of sulfuric acid and as a source of iron. Today, it is primarily valued as a collector's mineral due to its unique appearance and associations with geological processes. Caution: Pyrite can tarnish over time, forming a powdery coating of iron sulfate on its surface. This can lead to a deterioration of its metallic luster. Additionally, when exposed to weathering, pyrite may produce sulfuric acid, which can result in the formation of acidic drainage, a potential environmental concern in mining areas.