Iron pyrite, generally often called “idiot’s gold” on account of its resemblance to gold, is an iron sulfide mineral. Its worth is considerably decrease than that of gold, and is set by elements together with specimen measurement, high quality, and aesthetic enchantment. Whereas giant, well-formed crystals may be bought for ornamental functions, the mineral’s major industrial use is within the manufacturing of sulfuric acid.
Traditionally, pyrite was a supply of sulfur and performed a job in early chemical industries. At present, whereas not a major supply of iron, its significance lies in its continued use in sulfur manufacturing. Distinguishing pyrite from true gold stays necessary for prospectors and collectors alike. This distinction usually entails assessing elements like hardness, streak colour (the colour of the powdered mineral), and crystal kind. Pyrite’s brassy yellow hue and cubic crystal construction distinction with gold’s deeper yellow colour and malleability.