Properties and distinctive features of “fool’s gold.” Pyrite - stone for carving fire

Pyrite is one of the most common natural iron sulfides in the earth's crust. The color of this mineral is usually golden yellow or light brassy, ​​reminiscent of the color of gold. During the gold rush, in an effort to get rich, not very literate gold miners often confused pyrite stones and gold, which is why the mineral was called “fool’s gold.” In nature, the mineral usually has a cubic shape with smooth golden edges; its unusual shine has fascinated people since ancient times, and this stone does not lose its relevance even now.

Pyrite is one of the most common natural iron sulfides in the earth's crust.

Pyrite stone received its name from the Greek word “pyrites lithos” - a stone that strikes fire, for its amazing property of forming sparks of fire when struck. Very for a long time the use of pyrite was based only on its ability to form fire, this stone served the ancient people the only way making fire. In France, during the time of Napoleon, women were rewarded with pyrite crystals for donating their jewelry to the needs of the army. In those days, wearing items made from it was considered an honor and a certain distinctive sign of people who donated their valuables to the army.

Types of pyrite and its deposits

The mineral pyrite is a fairly common mineral, its deposits are found all over the world, but truly good, highly valued examples of the mineral are not found very often. For the needs of jewelry, the mineral is mined mainly in Italy. On an industrial scale, the stone is mined in Russia, the USA, Canada, Japan and European countries. At the same time, the extraction of the mineral is not an independent matter; it is obtained from pyrite ore during the development of deposits of other minerals, which is why pyrite crystal is sometimes called “gray pyrite.”

There are two varieties of pyrite:

  • bravoite – characterized by a larger proportion of nickel in the chemical composition;
  • Marcasite is a polymorphic variety of the mineral, differing from it in the structure of its crystal lattice.

Pyrite (video)

Magical and healing properties of the stone

The magical properties of pyrite stone were noticed by people in ancient times. This crystal is considered the “stone of men” because it gives its owner qualities characteristic of representatives of the stronger half of humanity - determination, courage, self-confidence. This stone was the favorite talisman of the god of war Mars, so it was believed that the one in whose hands it was located would be protected from accidental death, would never experience fear and could easily win a battle. At the same time, ancient people chose crystals without defects and chips as talismans, otherwise magical properties pyrite could turn against its owner and harm a person. Pyrite jewelry gives its owners optimism, more cheerfulness and desire for goals. This stone is useful to have for those who have a tendency to deal with difficult situations. life situations give up and give up without a fight. The magic of crystal helps people gain confidence in own strength, get rid of fear, increases performance and improves mood.

Pyrite stone gets its name from the Greek word “pyrites lithos” - stone that creates fire.

As a talisman, it is well suited for those whose activities are related to fire and law enforcement.

Pyrite stone has not only magical, but also healing properties, thanks to which it was widely used by healers and healers. In addition to the external false resemblance to gold, healing characteristics Pyrite also has properties similar to those of a precious metal. Just like gold, it calms the nervous system, so wearing pyrite products is recommended primarily for people with nervous disorders. The stone cures exhaustion nervous system helps restore energy and vitality, saves from depression. In ancient times, the mineral was used in the treatment of cataracts, relieved pain in the knees, reduced freckles and relieved women’s pain during childbirth.

Gallery: mineral pyrite (25 photos)

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Pyrite stone is considered a masculine stone. He has enormous energy. This is the stone of fanatics. Only to such people can he give success and happiness. The mineral is visually similar to metal. May be silver or light yellow. Translated from ancient Greek, its name means “carving fire.”

Pyrite is a stone whose magical properties cannot be underestimated. He has enormous power and is influenced by Mars and Neptune. Its magical properties are expressed quite clearly. This is the reason for using the stone in various rituals. Pyrite stone can be dangerous to a person who abuses its power. The mineral is capable of destroying it. Stones with chips and cracks can behave completely unpredictably. It is not recommended to deal with them at all. The larger the stone, the greater its power. The largest ones can only be used by very experienced magicians.

Pyrite stone reveals all the negative qualities in a person. Those who dare to wear it may show unexpected aggression. The destructive power of the mineral is so great that in a fit of rage a person can harm anyone who is nearby. It should also be taken into account that pyrite will not tolerate the proximity of other stones. He is capable of ruining the character of even a very kind and flexible person.

Medicinal properties

Pyrite is often used to treat the central nervous system. The stone has a beneficial effect on people suffering from such diseases. A person feeds on the unbridled vital energy of the stone and becomes more active. Chronic sleepiness, melancholy, depression, apathy recede under the influence of pyrite. It is able to strengthen the walls of blood vessels and saturate the blood with oxygen. In ancient times, pyrite was ground and treated toothache and ulcers on the body.

Mascot

As already mentioned, pyrite stone, the photo of which may seem rather inconspicuous, is dangerous to use. However, it can serve as a talisman only sincere, kind and open people. They have enough internal strength to suppress it Negative influence and take only the good. But as soon as their virtues are shaken, pyrite will turn them into narcissistic and proud people.

If a person, in spite of everything, decides to wear it, then he will certainly get rid of self-doubt, internal fears and gain enormous strength. Pyrite stone is an excellent energy shield. It will protect against any negative energy coming from outside and will prevent various infections. Pyrite can be called as it attracts luck and wealth. But this is only if the person is an adventurer and loves risk. It can make the indecisive and timid person bolder, contribute to the growth of self-esteem and the development of love relationships.

Despite all the positive qualities that the stone has, we should not forget about the opposite side. Under no circumstances should you anger the stone. He can take revenge on his owner in the most vile and unexpected way. People born under the sign of Cancer should not deal with pyrite.

Mesmerizing with its brilliance, pyrite has long been able to bewitch a person, suggesting that it is pure gold. The Greeks gave it its name, and it caused a lot of trouble for the Spaniards and Americans. The history of the stone begins in antiquity and extends to our time.

History and origin

The stone owes its name to the ancient Greeks - translated from their language, pyrite means “carving fire.” This name accurately describes its properties - the nugget really has a golden, fiery color. With its help, ancient people struck sparks to ignite a flame.

Another historically known name for pyrite is “fool’s gold.” Due to its external resemblance to the precious metal, it was often mistaken for gold.


The greed of the Spanish conquistadors played a cruel joke on them - they took the mined rock from the population of the American continent even before its discovery by Columbus, hoping to get rich. But, having brought this mineral home, they were made fools, subjected to ridicule by more experienced gold miners.

This is interesting: Throughout the history of the stone, other names have been mentioned: “Inca gold”, “cat gold”, sulfur or iron pyrite.

Since the times of Ancient Egypt, pyrite has been used as a mirror and also as an ornamental stone. Hindus believed that a pyrite amulet around the neck protected against attacks by crocodiles.

Europeans of the Middle Ages made all kinds of jewelry from firestone - bracelets, watches, shoe buckles. However, these objects were of little pleasure to the eye, because under the influence of moisture, pyrite quickly oxidizes and loses its attractiveness.

Noble ladies of Napoleonic times proudly wore jewelry with pyrite inlays. The fact is that it was customary to donate jewelry to the needs of the French army. In return, the women received a pyrite stone, which they later loved to brag about, boasting of their generosity and participation in charity.

An interesting story is described in the chronicles of the Swedish city of Falun. In one old mine, miners found the remains of a long-dead miner. There didn't seem to be anything strange, other than the fact that the body was petrified.


In those days, people firmly believed in the existence of all evil spirits, so they took it for the tricks of gnomes or trolls. Many years later, scientists found a simple solution to this phenomenon - in the right environment, minerals such as pyrite completely displace organic matter, replacing it with themselves. The body of the Falun miner is a prime example of this.

Deposits of "Inca gold"

A unique feature of pyrite is that it is mined in parallel with other, more valuable metals - cobalt, copper or zinc. Deposits are located all over the world, so there is no need to carry out separate, costly mining - the mineral is found wherever there is pyrite ore.

The largest deposits are located in the United States, Russia, and Sweden. Mining is also carried out in Azerbaijan, Norway, and Spain. However, only Italy supplies valuable samples that are loved by jewelers all over the planet.

Physical properties

Pyrite is iron sulfide. It is present in almost all geological rocks, only in magma its proportion is very small, but some types of sedimentary rocks can consist entirely of pyrite and silicon.

The mined samples of fire stone most often have a cubic shape, as well as almost ideal faces with a mirror reflection. The only drawback is that the stone quickly oxidizes when in contact with water or air.

PropertyDescription
FormulaFeS2
Hardness6-6,5
Density4.95-5.10 g/cm³
Melting temperature1177-1188 °C
CleavageImperfect.
singoniaCubic.
KinkConchoidal.
ShineMetal.
TransparencyOpaque.
ColorStraw yellow, golden.

The healing power of fire stone

The healing properties of pyrite were discovered by healers of ancient times. A stone tied to the body helped relieve joint pain. It was tied to the leg of women in labor so that childbirth would be quick and easy.

A pyrite crystal placed around the baby's neck helped the child maintain healthy, restful sleep. It was also believed that the mineral could cope with bleeding, leprosy, lichen, cataracts and remove freckles.

Interesting fact: Despite the fact that pyrite fights depression and psychological disorders, it is absolutely contraindicated for people with a high emotional threshold, too hot-tempered and vulnerable, as it can enhance these qualities.

Modern esotericists, lithotherapists, as well as traditional healers attribute a wide range of medicinal properties to pyrite:

  • relieves nervous tension, helps drive away fatigue and depression;
  • improves sleep quality, increases the body's performance;
  • helps improve the functioning of the respiratory organs and circulatory system;
  • protects and eliminates infectious and viral diseases;
  • eliminates fungal skin infections;
  • increases muscle tone;
  • helps treat infertility.


It is believed that pyrite can cope with chronic diseases, relieve fever, chills, and protect a person from complications caused by the flu. As in ancient times, the mineral is credited with the ability to restore strength and increase endurance, so the stone is advised to be worn by people doing hard, exhausting work.

The magic of golden edges

And again, the chain of references goes back to ancient times, starting with the ancient Greeks, who attributed to the stone an indescribable protective power for men, considering it a symbol of Ares, the god of war.

Each warrior had a protective crystal with him. It was believed that this amulet bestows incredible strength, both physical and sexual. Greek men believed that the stone gave them determination, fearlessness, and protected them from death.


Not like that distant times In the Middle Ages, pyrite was used by alchemists for experiments. And modern psychics also resort to using the stone to restore the energy field after energy-intensive rituals or rituals. Only for these purposes is a perfectly smooth stone, without chips or cracks, suitable, since a damaged stone will harm its owner.

This is interesting! Pyrite is a capricious stone. It does not tolerate the proximity of other minerals besides or. Only strong-willed and strong-willed people can wear a talisman all the time. For others, a tandem with a stone for more than three days can cause serious harm, making the owner nervous, irritable, even to the point of clouding his mind.

As a talisman, pyrite is suitable for people in dangerous professions - military, firefighters, workers law enforcement. It is able to protect, give physical and moral strength, awaken courage, endurance, and help in making important decisions.

To experience the magic of the mineral, you must have pure thoughts and good intentions. The slightest falsity or evil pyrite will turn against the owner.

A talisman with this stone gives a person confidence, determination, and determination. It will become a special assistant for passive individuals who are prone to inaction in difficult situations and often give up, afraid to make independent decisions.

Although pyrite has become famous since ancient times as a male talisman, giving a person pure masculine features character, after all, this nugget is useful for the weaker half of humanity. A woman will look more attractive in the eyes of the opposite sex by wearing such a talisman. A married ladies The stone will help revive faded passion and return the former freshness to the relationship.

Jewelry with pyrite

Despite the prevalence of the mineral in nature, as well as the low cost of its extraction, jewelry with pyrite is highly expensive, especially if made from precious metals:

  • a silver ring with an insert will cost from 18 thousand rubles, a solid pyrite ring is estimated from 20,000-22,000 rubles, and a gold one – from 90,000 rubles;
  • prices for earrings range from 17,000-30,000 rubles;
  • bracelets starting from 900 rubles to 2500;
  • beads will cost 5,000–9,000 rubles.




Despite the high cost, such jewelry is popular. Although the prices are simpler jewelry stores an order of magnitude lower than the cost of jewelry from designer houses. And costume jewelry will generally cost the buyer a ridiculous amount, since pyrite itself is an inexpensive mineral, and many alloys for jewelry are affordable.

Varieties

There are two types of pyrite found in nature:

  • Bravoit. Due to the fact that a fifth of its composition is entirely nickel, these samples are distinguished by their bright brass-yellow color.
  • Marcasite is different special structure crystal lattice, has a rich golden hue, silvery tints.


IN in rare cases pyrite crystals contain small inclusions pure gold. When mining, you encounter both individual crystals and cubes different sizes, but absolute, perfect shape with the same unsurpassed edges, chiseled by nature itself.

How to distinguish a fake?

Today, plastic or glass fakes can be passed off as pyrite. However, recognizing a natural mineral is not that difficult. Firstly, natural pyrite is not translucent, which distinguishes it from glass or plastic. Secondly, if it is a fake with a coating, you just need to run your fingernail over it and the genuine material will be revealed under the scratch.


It happens that pyrite is not counterfeited, but on the contrary, it is passed off as gold. In this case, it is enough to test the metal for softness, and also try to make a scratch on the glass - gold will be softer, it will leave a dent on it, and it is easier to scratch the glass with pyrite. Moreover, a product made of pyrite cannot be refined, with small details, most often pyrite jewelry is solid and massive.

Caring for mineral products

Pyrite jewelry requires special, careful care. The stone itself is hard, but very fragile, so it should be protected from mechanical influences, as well as from the influence of chemical agents.

Top safety tip original form stone - coat a new, washed, dried product or insert with colorless varnish. Then the decoration will be able to please the eye longer.


Even with very careful care pyrite will lose its appearance over time, and may even collapse. For collectors, it is recommended to store pyrite specimens in a vacuum, and for those who cannot afford it, they can at least simply boil it in paraffin.

Compatibility with Zodiac signs

(“++” - the stone fits perfectly, “+” - can be worn, “-” - is strictly contraindicated):

Zodiac signCompatibility
Aries++
Taurus+
Twins+
Cancer-
a lion++
Virgo+
Scales+
Scorpion++
Sagittarius++
Capricorn+
Aquarius+
Fish+


In astrology, pyrite stone is considered the patron of the fire element. This nugget is most favorable to Aries and Leo. Representatives of this sign, who take an active life position, will preserve and increase their energy. Such people will gain confidence, determination, faith in success, and will overcome all obstacles with this talisman.

Scorpios and Sagittarius can also count on the favor of pyrite. The nugget will endow these signs with physical and emotional strength, endurance, protect them on long journeys, bringing good luck in travel. Gemini will receive magical help pyrite in the professional sphere - it will help them move up the career ladder in the near future.

Other zodiac signs will not feel the power of the fire stone. Pyrite is very strong and also demanding. This is a stone of iron will, capable of not only imparting strength, but also taking it away, leaving a person energetically depleted, lethargic, and sad.

A pyrite crystal can cause the greatest danger to signs that belong to the water element. The stone can cause particular harm and damage to vital energy to Cancers, so people born under this constellation are better off avoiding such a talisman altogether.


An interesting fact is that pyrite is patronized by two planets at once solar system– Neptune and Mars. This is what, according to astrologers, gives the stone incredible energy, as well as the magical ability to influence the life events of many people.

Pyrite occupies a special place in Chinese teaching Feng Shui. The unique abilities of the stone are used by these people to attract prosperity to the home, family happiness, financial wealth, good luck. All kinds of figurines, coins and other figures are made from the mineral.

To protect the house from evil forces, such decor is placed at the entrance, and to lure money - in the south-eastern zone of a residential building or office. A Chinese pyrite coin placed in a purse or wallet helps solve many problems, attract finance, and gives confidence.

Note

Having so many names, preserved in the bowels of the earth for so many centuries, pyrite has conquered people with its power since ancient times. Despite its simplicity, not standing next to gold in value, although it can rightfully be called its twin brother, this stone still took its significant place for people and became a reliable patron for many.

IN modern world a stone capable of striking fire is no longer considered something great and divine, however, if you look into the depths of the past, you can understand that it was precisely such human discoveries that, year after year, helped man rise to such heights of civilization and now help him stay there.

Pyrite - stone for carving fire

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Translated from Greek, “pyrites lithos” means “carving fire.” Stone pyrite received this name for the fiery color and sparks that arise when it hits. Just two centuries ago, pyrite served as matches - with its help, like a firewood, they lit a fire.

The mineral has been known for a long time: In America, long before the arrival of Columbus, iron pyrite (another name for pyrite) was mistaken for a precious metal- gold miners hunted for pyrite crystals, similar in shine to gold, and took it away from local residents. This is where the name came from - “fools’ gold” or “ fool's gold«.

In Ancient Egypt it was used instead of a mirror, and the people of India hung pyrite stones around their necks, believing that they would protect them from attacks by crocodiles.

The nobility of medieval Europe used pyrite stone as a material for making jewelry. Shoe buckles and bracelets, watch cases and other items were made from pyrite - the mineral looked attractive, but quickly lost its shine when exposed to moisture. Oxidation of pyrite turned the stone into nondescript limonite of a dirty brown color.

During Napoleon's time, women who donated their valuable jewellery for military needs, they gave a pyrite pebble in return. Ladies wore jewelry with stones that looked like gold for show, proud of their generosity and patriotism.

From a scientific point of view

Considering pyrite from a chemical point of view, the composition of the mineral is iron sulfide ( chemical formula pyrite - FeS2). Pyrite is brittle, its hardness on the Mohs scale is 6-6.5.
In nature, iron (sulfur) pyrite, which is pyrite, has a light golden yellow color and is found in cubic shape, often with perfectly smooth, almost mirror-like edges. It oxidizes easily when exposed to oxygen. Pyrite can be found in various geological rocks.

You can find sulfur pyrites everywhere, but samples High Quality are found infrequently. There are large deposits in Europe (Spain, Austria, Germany - Bavaria, Poland, France and other countries), America and in Russia, in the Urals. Beautiful crystals used in jewelry are mined mainly in Italy.

Iron pyrite has unique property- replace living tissues. Pyrite ammonites are often found in mud sediments. Pyrite replaces calcium in mollusk shells, resulting in amazing things - the shells shine as if covered with gold.
Varieties of pyrite

Marcasite and bravoite, two varieties of pyrite, have the same formula. Bravoite has a strong metallic luster, yellow color, and contains up to 20% nickel.

Marcasite, otherwise called drop silver, is used in jewelry - jewelry with it looks attractive. Marcasite is used as inserts in silver products; marcasite inserts look beautiful in combination with ornamental stones - malachite, turquoise.

Application of the mineral

The fragility and ability of the stone to quickly oxidize despite visual appeal does not make it possible to use it widely in the jewelry industry.

Pyrite is a stone that is mined for the impurities it contains:

  • gold;
  • copper;
  • Uranus;
  • cobalt;
  • selenium;
  • nickel.


Video on the topic mysterious properties pyrite.

Since ancient times, the properties of pyrite have been used to extract fire; later, pyrite ore began to be used as a raw material for the production of sulfuric acid and iron sulfate. After roasting the pyrite ore, the cinders are used as a source of iron. The use of pyrite in the technology of preparing certain types of concrete, cement, and mastics is known.

In addition, iron pyrite has the property of releasing gold as a precipitate from solutions.

The magic of pyrite

Pyrite, similar in color and shine to gold, was endowed with magical properties back in ancient times. It is believed that the mineral is protected by Mars and Neptune. IN Ancient Greece Pyrite was considered a symbol of the god of war, Ares, so warriors carried it with them as an amulet, which was supposed to give them courage and strength, and protect them from death in battle.

It is believed that you cannot keep the stone with you for more than three days, otherwise all the magical properties of pyrite not only lose their power - they begin to negatively affect the owner, causing him irritability and negative emotions.

Astrologers attribute to pyrite the properties to have a positive effect on Sagittarius and Scorpio and, conversely, do not recommend the stone to Cancer, for whom it can be dangerous and harmful. It is recommended to carry a pebble with people who are exposed to danger at work or experience constant nervous tension. For others, having pyrite as an amulet is not worth it.

The magic of the stone lies in its ability to return to its owner vital energy, free him from fear. A person who has a talisman with pyrite becomes more confident and purposeful. Therefore, it is recommended to be worn by those who need to strengthen leadership skills. However, only a person with pure thoughts can be helped by a stone. The mineral does not tolerate bad thoughts; it will harm a person who has unrighteous intentions.

Pyrite is considered a male talisman because it gives a person characteristic masculine traits:

  • courage;
  • determination;
  • self confidence;
  • desire to achieve a goal.

However, the power that the mineral bestows must be handled carefully. The stone will “detect” bad thoughts and turn them against the owner. But it is useful for those who, in difficult life situations, are ready to fold their arms without fighting. It will help those who are afraid to make independent decisions.

The stone is also useful for women. For those who want to revive faded feelings, pyrite will help return passion to marital relations. The stone makes a woman attractive in the eyes of a man, but it is not recommended to wear jewelry with pyrite in combination with other stones. The mineral makes an exception only for hematite and serpentine.

Healing properties of the mineral

Lithotherapists search in every pebble special properties that will help cure diseases. In the old days, it was believed that pyrite sharpens vision and helps in healing various types tumors.

For infants, a pyrite pebble was hung around the neck to ensure a restful sleep for the child. Even in ancient times, it was tied to the leg of a woman in labor to facilitate childbirth.

It was used in the treatment of lichen and leprosy, to relieve pain in the joints, and as a hemostatic agent.

Pyrite is believed to be:

  • improves sleep;
  • calms the nervous system;
  • relieves stress, depression, phobias;
  • improves performance.

Pyrite will protect the owner from infectious and colds, it is able to reduce fever, relieve chills, and prevent complications from the flu from appearing. If you wear a pebble on your chest, it stimulates the human respiratory system, heart, accelerates blood circulation and helps saturate tissues with oxygen. Ventilation of the lungs improves, the bronchi are cleared, and the person gets rid of asthma.

To believe or not to believe in the magical properties of pyrite is everyone’s business. Much more important is its use as a raw material in industry.

Pyrite (Greek πυρίτης λίθος - stone that strikes fire) is a mineral from the sulfide class, chemical formula - FeS 2. Synonyms: iron pyrite, sulfur pyrite. The name is given in connection with the ability of the mineral to produce sparks when struck by steel.

Pyrite crystals

Metallic shine. The color is light, brass yellow. The line is black. Hardness 6-6.5. Specific gravity 4.95-5.10 g/cm3. There is no cleavage. Solid granular and dense masses; also inclusions, individual crystals (cubes, tetragonal dodecahedrons), druses, pseudomorphs on other minerals, sometimes loose (black). Cubic system. Mutually perpendicular shading is often observed on the crystal faces. In itself it is a very fragile mineral.

Features . Pyrite stone can be distinguished from other minerals by its constant metallic luster, great hardness, light brass-yellow color and black streak. Pyrite resembles copper pyrite, which is often found together with it, it differs more light color(copper pyrite has a thick brass-yellow color) and greater hardness (copper pyrite does not scratch glass).

Chemical properties . When boiled in a 1% solution of AgNO 3 it only turns slightly brown.

Origin of pyrite

The mineral is released from hot hydrogen solutions coming from magma chambers, along with other sulfides. A similar formation of pyrite occurs in the zone of contact of igneous rocks with sedimentary rocks (limestones, marls, clays). It occurs by pneumatolyte as a result of a mutual reaction between hot vapors of hydrogen sulfide and other sulfur compounds with compounds containing iron. It also crystallizes from magma upon cooling. The mineral is also formed among flowing rocks (clayey, carbonaceous, marly rocks) as a result of the interaction of surface aqueous solutions containing iron with hydrogen sulfide, usually released as a result of the decomposition of organic residues. In addition, pyrite is formed under surface conditions as a result of the reduction of iron sulfate salts with carbon from organic substances. It is also released at the bottom of swamps, lakes and some seas (for example, the Black Sea), where decomposition of organic substances occurs under conditions of insufficient oxygen access. The resulting hydrogen sulfide reacts with iron salts dissolved in water, which leads to the precipitation of pyrite. Pyrite is also found in metamorphic rocks (gneisses, chlorite schists).

On the surface, pyrite is an unstable compound and is quite easily subject to chemical weathering processes. The final product of the chemical decomposition of pyrite is . IN upper parts Pyrite deposits therefore usually contain clusters of brown iron ores, forming the so-called “iron hats”. Due to chemical weathering, pseudomorphs (false forms) of limonite often appear on pyrite, when the amorphous mineral limonite occurs in the form of crystals characteristic of pyrite.

It is found in ore veins, in contacts of igneous rocks with sedimentary rocks, in metamorphic (gneisses, chlorite schists), in sedimentary (clays, coal) and in igneous rocks.

Satellites. Vein minerals: quartz, calcite. In ore veins: chalcopyrite, galena, sphalerite, gold. In contacts: magnetite, chalcopyrite. In sedimentary rocks: coal. Products of chemical change: limonite, hematite, siderite.

Applications of pyrite

Pyrite is the main raw material for the production of sulfuric acid; cinders are used as iron ore. In addition, impurities are extracted from it: gold, copper, silver, cobalt, nickel and other elements. Pyrite is also used to remove chlorine from gas waste from chemical plants. Pyrite has the ability to precipitate gold from solutions. This is the basis for its use for the extraction of gold contained in sea ​​water.

Place of Birth

Pyrite is widespread in the Middle Urals (Karabash, Blyava, in Bashkiria - Sibay). Pyrite is found in the form of inclusions in coal deposits in the Moscow region coal basin and in Borovichi (Novgorod region). Pyrite can be found in Rio Tinto (Spain).