Close relatives of pyrite in physical and chemical properties. What minerals can be confused with pyrite
In terms of chemical, physical properties, as well as external characteristics, pyrite has so-called brothers - related minerals. They can easily be confused with each other.
Chalcopyrite. This is also a mineral, but it has a darker, intense yellow tint, giving off a reddish tint. This is due to the large proportion of copper in the stone. Hardness is lower: 3.5-4 on the Mohs scale.
Cobaltine. A mineral containing cobalt and iron. Softer than pyrite: its hardness is 3.5. Differs in color: from white to dark gray.
Compatibility with Zodiac signs
The crystal is recommended to be worn by those whose daily work involves danger and constant nervous stress. Everyone else should not wear pyrite as a talisman.
Jewelry containing pyrite or a separate stone is useful for representatives of the Sagittarius and Scorpio signs. This mineral is completely contraindicated for Cancers. If the mineral brings good luck and harmony to the first signs, then it will provide the second with the presence of internal tension and constant anxiety. Astrologers recommend crystal to people who work hard and often experience stress. For everyone else, it’s better to give it up altogether. Pyrite, although low in density, is a very short-lived stone. It is a symbol of masculinity, representing confidence, determination, courage and perseverance.
Where is pyrite mined? Russian deposits
It is important that there are no pure pyrite deposits. Fool's gold is not so expensive and valuable, so it is mined only together with other rocks and metals. Pyrite is often present in ores next to gold. Found together with nickel, cobalt, copper. The largest Russian deposits:
- Ural: Kalatinskoye, Berezovskoye, Degtyarskoye gold ore deposits;
- Magadan region, city of Susuman;
- Altai and Caucasus mountains.
In addition, pyrite is found in deposits of marine clays and brown coal, which are found in Central Russia. Numerous factories are engaged in the processing of mineral rock, for example, in Yekaterinburg and Rostov.
Mineral mining
Pyrite formula, origin, chemical composition.
The natural mineral pyrite is the so-called sulfur or ferruginous pyrite, which is considered the most common sulfide mineral. In this case, the formula of pyrite is FeS2 (46.6% Fe, 53.4% S). Formation occurs during a variety of geoprocesses: magmatic, sedimentary, hydrothermal, etc.
The crystals are found almost everywhere and are commonly found iron sulfides. This natural mineral usually comes in the shape of a cube and often has completely smooth, as if polished, mirror-like edges. There are also samples in the form of granular masses.
This natural gem is present in rocks of various etymologies. Metasomatic rocks contain a particularly significant amount of it. Sedimentary rocks also mainly consist of pyrites and silicon. In magmatic ones, it enters as an accessory substance (in scanty volumes). Natural pyrites often form pseudomorphs after ancient fossils such as ammonites.
Usually pyrites are found in the form of beautiful intergrowths and separately formed crystals. The most common shape of natural pyrite crystal samples is cubic. The stones are so perfectly formed and cut by nature that it is difficult to understand that this was not processed by a master. Sometimes you come across specimens containing microscopic inclusions of gold and other metals.
Rocks of the sedimentary group often contain natural pyrites, which replace the remains of dead animals and plants. At the same time creating unique fossilized forms in the form of shells and entire pieces of fossil trees.
Methods for the formation of pyrite in nature
The origin of the mineral is explained in several ways.
When magma crystallizes during cooling
Volcanic magma, cooling, crystallizes. Hot vapors disappear, the remaining oxides form pyrite.
As a result of the interaction of hydrogen sulfide vapor, sulfur and iron-containing compounds
Pyrite can be formed by pneumalite, that is, with the participation of gaseous substances. For example, hydrogen sulfide and iron-containing substances combine with sulfur compounds to release hot fumes. They interact to form mineral rock.
Characteristics of the stone and origin
Let's look at the composition of pyrite and the formula. The igneous origin of the mineral explains its structural formula. Significant accumulations of rock form on the ocean floor. This compound also appears in sedimentary rocks. Near the earth's surface, pyrite is an unstable compound that quickly oxidizes, turning into an insoluble hydroxide. Because of this, brown iron ore is often found. During mining, rocks encounter minerals in the form of stalactites. If pyrite ores are enriched with it, highly dispersed sulfur is formed.
Areas of application of pyrite
The scope of application of cat gold is quite wide. This is due to its extensive beneficial properties.
Fool's gold mineral pyrite
Mineralogy and collectors: exhibition samples
Pyrite is a popular stone among rock collectors. This is due to how unusual the mineral can look. The unusual radiance and amazing shapes of the crystals are the reason why cat stone exhibits occupy pride of place not only in amateur collections, but on the shelves of mineral museums.
Industry: iron ore and sulfur, pyrite impurities, concrete production
Pyrite is used in industrial production. Thus, it produces sulfuric acid. Roasting the mineral produces sulfur oxide and iron oxide. Sulfur oxide, after oxidation, forms sulfuric acid. Iron oxide, interacting with carbide, turns into metal.
Due to its ability to create fire, it is used in the production of silicon weapons. In microelectronics it is used for the manufacture of detectors for radio receivers. The mineral rock is also actively used in construction. Pyrite contains solutions of concrete, cement, expanded clay, mastic, and asphalt concrete.
Jewelry making: jewelry and accessories
Jewelry made from cat gold has been made since ancient times. Pyrite products look as impressive as gold ones: due to their shine and shimmer. In addition, various accessories are made from pyrite: mirror frames, hairpins, hair combs, boxes, figurines, cigarette cases.
Colors and varieties
Pyrite is opaque and has a rich metallic luster. Due to its yellowish, straw, brass or golden hue, it resembles gold. Silvery and bluish samples are much less common.
Mineralogists also classify the following minerals as pyrites:
- Marcasite is a radiant mineral with silvery tints, a similar chemical formula, but a different crystal lattice structure. It is also called “drop silver”.
Marcasite in suspension
- Bravoite is a mineral containing up to 20% nickel, which is why it has a rich golden-yellow hue.
Bravoit
- Chalcopyrite or copper pyrite containing copper. It is much softer than its iron counterpart, has a brass tint and, when oxidized, reveals a rusty-yellow iridescent coating.
Chalcopyrite
Ancient and modern healers about the healing properties of the stone
When studying the structure and properties of cat gold, it was revealed that its therapeutic capabilities are unique. Pyrite can safely be called a natural antidepressant. Experts recommend wearing this stone as a talisman for people who suffer from nervous system problems or sleep disturbances. The stone relieves stress, restores strength, restores efficiency, and relieves insomnia.
The mineral also has contraindications for treatment. Not recommended for people with unstable mental disorders or neuropsychiatric diagnoses.
Magic of stone
Our ancestors endowed this stone with magical properties. The Greeks recognized it as a symbol of Ares, the god of war. Warriors always wore such an amulet, because it gave them strength and protected them from death.
Important information
The crystal cannot be worn for more than three days, otherwise its magical properties begin to act negatively, causing negative emotions and constant irritability in the owner.
The magic of the stone lies in its unique ability to immediately return lost vital energy to a person and deprive him of the feeling of fear. The owner of a talisman with this stone always becomes more confident and purposeful. The amulet is recommended to be worn by people who want to strengthen their leadership qualities. But a person must certainly have pure thoughts, otherwise the stone cannot help him in any way. The mineral does not tolerate bad desires; it will begin to harm in every possible way a person who has unrighteous intentions.
Pyrite is usually recognized as a male talisman, since it enhances the characteristics of the stronger sex in its owner:
- determination;
- courage;
- confidence;
- indomitable desire for a goal.
Magicians recommend carefully handling the power granted by pyrite. The crystal will immediately “figure out” any base thoughts, immediately turning them against its owner. But the mineral will help you make accurate and thoughtful decisions on your own.
The nugget is also useful for women. It especially helps those who want to revive their feelings, since it returns former passion to the marital bed. The pebble quickly makes the owner of the amulet attractive to men, but jewelry containing pyrite should not be worn together with other stones. As an exception - serpentine and hematite.
Esotericists about the magical effect of pyrite jewelry on the human body
The use of pyrite is possible for magical purposes, esotericists say. This is a favorite crystal of psychics and magicians. It is believed that it is able to accumulate and preserve vital energy. Many psychics, after practical sessions, use this stone for recovery; they receive magical power through it.
Pyrite nugget
It is important to use the perfect mineral without cracks or chips. It is advisable to use pyrite as a talisman in the following cases:
- when a person takes risks or is in danger, for example, police officers, firefighters, rescuers;
- The mineral is suitable for leaders and strong personalities;
- The stone protects families.
Magicians claim that pyrite is a masculine mineral. It can make a person strong, fearless, and instill confidence in him. There is also an opinion that this stone warns of dangers, misfortunes, death: it becomes cloudy.
The crystal is also useful to some extent for women. Helps arrange personal life, preserves the child for pregnant women, facilitates childbirth, treats infertility.
A stone can also be of great importance for a child. If the baby is restless, then a piece of pyrite was hung in the form of a pendant around the neck. The stone not only gave balance and tranquility, it also improved sleep, protecting against nightmares.
How to distinguish pyrite from gold at home
It is not difficult to distinguish pyrite from gold. These compounds have completely different structures and chemical compositions:
- A gem, unlike gold, consists of small crystals. The edges of the stone are always sharpened. The gold nugget has smooth edges and a streamlined shape.
- Pyrite smells of sulfur, while gold has no smell.
- Despite the fact that pyrite is considered a very soft mineral, it is much harder than pure gold. The metal can be deformed by the force of the hand, while the mineral remains unchanged.
- If you rub gold on porcelain, it will leave a golden mark on the dishes. If you do the same with pyrite, a black or gray-green stripe will remain on the porcelain.
Such verification methods will only be reliable if you compare natural gold (and not an alloy) and the mineral. Otherwise, the results of the study will be false.
Cost of pyrite and products made from it
Cat gold, as already mentioned, serves as a raw material in the jewelry industry. How much can you buy or sell a product made from this mineral?
There is a misconception that pyrite products are cheap. This is not always the case, because significant costs are associated with the extraction of the mineral and its processing. In addition, jewelry is not made from pure mineral; most often it is combined with precious metals and stones.
For example, in Moscow and St. Petersburg, a silver ring can be bought for an average of 20 thousand rubles. A pyrite ring will be 2-3 thousand more expensive. Bracelets cost around 2 thousand, prices for earrings – up to 30 thousand. You can buy beads for 4-5 thousand rubles.
How to care for pyrite
Under the influence of moisture and air, oxidation of pyrite occurs with its subsequent transformation into limonite.
Outwardly, it looks like the stone is covered with rust. For this reason, it is stored in tightly closed boxes, and protected from moisture and prolonged contact with air. Products made from pyrite can only be cleaned with a dry soft cloth. In addition, pyrite is a fragile stone and must be protected from mechanical stress. He also doesn’t really like the proximity of other minerals; pyrite can only be combined with hematite and serpentine.
Jeweler's comment
Molokanov N.M.
Jeweler, 26 years of experience in jewelry production.
It’s not for nothing that the mineral is called fool’s gold. Its deceptive shine makes it possible to make beautiful jewelry stylized in gold. On the one hand, this is an opportunity to create budget jewelry options, on the other hand, the development of fraudulent schemes. And although the time when people, out of ignorance, mistaking fools for gold placers for a precious metal has passed, unscrupulous masters of making money from counterfeits still remain. And if you consider that jewelers never use pure gold, but only alloys, then it is not difficult to deceive an unscrupulous buyer. Therefore, be sure to buy jewelry from trusted sellers, request the necessary documentation, and study the composition of the product. Getting the right information will protect you from scammers.
Interesting facts about pyrite
- In ancient times, pyrite was used as flint to make fire (it was known as flint).
- Externally, pyrite nuggets resemble native gold, which is why such popular names for this mineral as “iron pyrite” and “fools’ gold” are associated. Pyrite differs from real gold in its lower specific gravity and higher hardness. In addition, natural gold is never found in the form of crystals with a clear shape.
- In sedimentary rocks, pyrites often replace fragments of animal bodies and plant parts. This creates unique fossils. In the 13th century in Sweden, pyrite took 60 years to replace the body of a miner who died in a mine.
Application: from cast iron to figurines
The importance of pyrite for industry (and therefore for our comfortable life) is great.
- For many years, the production of sulfuric acid was impossible without firestone.
- Pyrite consists of two elements - iron and sulfur. So they get iron and cast iron from it, Alpine diamond.
- Sulfur was also previously extracted from firestone. Nowadays it is mainly obtained as a by-product of oil and gas refining (a headache for oil workers is sulfurous oil).
- Sulfuric acid is also easy to obtain from pyrite by reacting it with oxygen.
- Oxidative roasting of iron disulfide - and you get iron sulfate. If you don’t know what it is, it means you’re not a summer resident, not a gardener, and you haven’t had iron deficiency anemia.
- Jewelers are trying to use the shine and resemblance to gold of this mineral.
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They tried to make watch cases, trinkets, umbrella handles, boxes, and figurines from “clown gold.” However, the capricious mineral in a humid climate quickly rusted, darkened, and lost its marketable appearance.
That’s when museum curators came up with the idea of boiling items made from “Inca gold” in paraffin or covering them with colorless varnish—the jewelry became safe to wear.
Chemical value
Considering that the formula of pyrite implies the presence of impurities in the mineral, nickel, cobalt, silver, copper, and gold can be extracted from the ore in small quantities.
In chemical production, pyrite is used to purify gaseous substances from chlorine. In addition, pyrite has the ability to precipitate from gold solutions, which is used in the extraction of precious metal from seawater.
What characteristics does the pyrite formula have? This compound has a pronounced metallic luster. Its hardness is estimated at 6-6.5. This mineral is practically insoluble in nitric acid and does not interact with hydrochloric acid. This compound has virtually no electrical conductivity, which is why it is called a paramagnetic mineral. The satellites of pyrite are pyrrhotite, arsenopyrite, and gold tellurides.
We treat with pyrite without fanaticism
Pliny the Elder wrote that powdered pyrite is used to treat ulcers and goiters, hence another name for the mineral - a stone of health.
Following the scientist’s instructions, in ancient times healers sprinkled crushed pyrite on ulcers and abscesses. Ointments with it were used to relieve joint pain.
Lithotherapists include the following medicinal properties of Alpine diamond:
- Positive effect on the nervous system.
- Help in the fight against depression and mania.
- Normalization of the balance of processes in the body.
For iron deficiency anemia, stone experts advise wearing jewelry made from “Inca gold.” They will increase the amount of oxygen in the blood and accelerate its delivery to tissues and organs. This seems to be true - it’s not for nothing that the mineral is used in the manufacture of medicines for anemia.
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Easily excitable people are not recommended to wear jewelry with a fire stone.
