Pyrite

Pyrite — iron sulfide, and the "fool's gold" of legend — is the only truly metallic-looking stone in our range. It is harder than it looks at Mohs 6 to 6.5, but it is also brittle and susceptible to moisture. Below is our pyrite selection, which is small by design.

What Pyrite Is

Pyrite is FeS₂, iron disulfide, crystallizing most often as cubes with striated faces. Its brass-yellow metallic lustre and density (specific gravity 4.9–5.2, roughly twice quartz) are what convinced generations of prospectors they had found gold. The test that gives it away is hardness: gold is Mohs 2.5–3 and deforms, while pyrite is Mohs 6–6.5 and brittle — it shatters rather than bends.

Two practical consequences follow. First, pyrite is brittle: it chips and cracks under impact rather than denting. Second, it is sensitive to moisture — water and humidity promote oxidation that produces a rusty surface and, in some specimens, acidic runoff. Beaded pyrite jewelry is therefore best kept dry.

Meaning and Tradition

Pyrite's symbolism is almost entirely about abundance — not because it is valuable, but because it looks like the thing that is. In crystal tradition it is a stone of will, of follow-through, and of the willingness to do the unglamorous work. In astrology it is most often assigned to Leo and Sagittarius. Some traditions treat its resemblance to gold as the point: the stone that reminds you that appearance and substance are different things.

Choosing and Wearing

• Look for tight, bright facet-like surfaces. Good pyrite shows clean cubic geometry and strong metallic reflectance.
• Accept some natural variation. Slight tarnish or darker patches on authentic pyrite is normal; uniform bright gold without any structure may be plated metal.
• Bracelet vs pendant. A bracelet shows off the metallic finish, but it is the form most exposed to sweat and knocks. A pendant or a short necklace is the more forgiving choice.

Care

Wipe with a dry or barely damp cloth and dry immediately. Never soak pyrite, never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, and store it away from humidity — a sealed bag with a desiccant is ideal. Avoid perfume and lotions directly on the stone.