PYRITE

"Fools Gold"

Pyrite
  • Peru
  • Iron Sulfide
  • Hardness: 6-6.5
  • From the Greek pyr "fire"
  • eggs also available

     

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    These specimens of pyrite are produced  as a byproduct in large open pit mines in the Andes mountains.  The mines are producing ores of copper, zinc, and lead.  Iron pyrite (iron disulfide) is found here in three basic crystal forms: pyritohedron, octahedron, and cube and combinations.  Pyrite is easily differentiated from real gold because it is hard and brittle,  and gold is soft and malleable.



    Pyrite
    • Pyrite "Sunflowers"
    • China

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