Mineral LOVE: Pyrite!

The first "rock" I ever bought was a piece of Pyrite from a museum gift shop in Chicago.  It was beautiful--sparkling and golden, almost faceted.  It was Pyrite, and I still love it!  But what is Pyrite exactly?

Pyrite Cubes

Pyrite is a mineral that is sometimes called "Iron Pyrite" because it's made of Iron and Sulfur atoms.  It's often called "Fool's Gold" because in old mining days, little pieces of Pyrite would be mistaken for gold.   Sometimes, actual gold atoms form inside Pyrite, and sometimes in gold deposits, pyrite can be found.  This is probably why it's called Fool's Gold!

The word Pyrite comes from the Greek word for "fire" because it sparks when hit against rocks or steel.

Pyrite in Fossilized Ammonite

Pyrite is found in rocks, such as limestone, shale, and coal.  It can form as crystals or in massive form (lacking any crystals).  It sometimes forms in fossils.  It has a metallic luster, but it oxidizes quickly when exposed to the air, and looks greenish or greyish due to tarnish.

Pyrite has the same chemical structure as Marcasite, although it forms different crystals and therefore is considered a different mineral.  Often, Marcasite jewelry is actually made with Pyrite.

Pyrite can be found in many forms:  in cubes, "dollars" (radiating flat

Pyrite "Dollar"

disc shapes) which are also called "pyrite suns", pyritohedral (12-sided small crystals, like a druzy), octahedral (like a double-sided pyramid).

Metaphysically, Pyrite is considered a protective mineral, and shields the wearer from negative energies while inviting prosperity and happiness!  In Fung-Shui, pyrite attracts wealth and abundance and positive energy when placed in the home or office.

There are many pyrite beads that are coated with gold or silver or other colors, including rainbow colors, that can be found on Etsy and elsewhere.  Many of these coatings are actually paint and it will scratch or even wash off.  Please be aware that these are called "coated" as opposed to plated. The honest sellers will refer to these beads as "silver colored" or "copper colored" etc.   Personally, the beautiful and natural brassy look of "raw" Pyrite is the best.