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xA pyrite sphere with open cavities showing medium sized pyrite crystals. This one will add a bit of sparkle and shine to any room or space! Sold with acrylic stand.
Approximate size: ~3" in diameter
Location: Peru
A golden yellow to brown, widely occurring mineral sulfide, FeS2, Pyrite is used as an iron ore and to produce sulfur dioxide for sulfuric acid. It is also known as Fool's Gold because it resembles gold, even though it is harder (H. 5-6) and a paler yellow. Pyrite is often found in quartz veins, sometimes even with gold. Pyrite crystals are common; it may also occur as grains or in masses. It streaks a greenish black and when tarnished, may resemble chalcopyrite. If struck sharply against steel, pyrite gives off sparks. It is thought that early man carried pyrite to start fires that contributed to his survival. The name itself is derived from the Greek πυρίτης (puritēs), "of fire" or "in fire," from πύρ (pur), "fire.” Although Pyrite is fairly common, specimens such as this are highly collectable.