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Pyrite is an iron sulfide with the formula FeS2. This mineral's metallic luster and pale-to-normal, brass-yellow hue have earned it the nickname "fool's gold" because of its resemblance to gold. Pyrite is the most common of the sulfide minerals. The name pyrite is derived from the Greek purites "of fire" or "in fire", from pur, "fire." In ancient Roman times, this name was applied to several types of stone that would create sparks when struck against steel. Pyrite is usually found associated with other sulfides or oxides in quartz veins, sedimentary rock, and metamorphic rock, as well as in coal beds, and as a replacement mineral in fossils. Despite being nicknamed fool's gold, pyrite is sometimes found in association with small quantities of gold. (source: Wikipedia) Photos by Michael Marcotte The sedimentary rock below contain just trace flecks and chips of pyrite, intermixed with quartz. Return to List Back to Michael's Hobbies page Back to Michael Marcotte's HomePage