Mineral 1.0: Pyrite (massive)

Mineral 1.0

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Dull gold colour of pyrite present in this sample, as is a vein of galena along the top edge
Kerry Cupit / John Phipps

Pyrite (massive)FeS₂

Class: Sulfide
Hardness: 6 - 6.5
Density: 5.0
Streak: Greenish/brownish black
Lustre: Metallic
Habit: Fine to medium-grained aggregate.
Colours: Bronze-yellow
   Crystal System: Isometric
Cleavage: Indistinct
Fracture: Conchoidal
Magnetism: None
Reaction with HCl: Unknown
Identification in hand sample:
Colour, hardness, streak and habit are best indicators. Gives off sparks when struck with a hard metal object.
Associations:
Most common sulfide mineral, almost always present in hydrothermal deposits.
Industrial / ecomonic uses:
May be used as source of iron or sulfur, but not normally of economic value.



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