Pyrite
Chemical Formula
FeS2
Chemical Class
Sulfides
Properties
Pyrite is a very common mineral, found in a large variety of rocks, including meteorites.
Origin
Canada
Curiosities
The name Pyrite comes from the Greek pyr, meaning fire, referring to glossy sparks released by fire whenever hit with steel. Pyrite golden-yellow metallic color often leads people to mix it with gold, thus the nickname ‘fool´s gold’.
Use
Its main use is as sulphur source to manufacture sulphuric acid, and less frequently, as iron source. It is also used as a gemstone, but it is sold as Marcasite.
Source: MM Gerdau - Museu das Minas e do Metal -