Pyrite, often called "Fools Gold", has a golden metallic color. It is very common and may occur in large crystals. It has been used by ancient civilizations as jewelry, but is hardly used nowadays. Pyrite is sometimes incorrectly known as "Marcasite" in the gem trade. Marcasite is a polymorph of pyrite, and is unsuitable for gem use.

USES
Pyrite is used mostly as costume jewelry. However, it may also be carved into small roses, edge stones, and cabochons. Sometimes, perfect pyritohedral crystals are used in jewelry without being faceted. These fine and rare examples make naturally beautiful and inexpensive gem pieces. Aggregates of small pyrite crystals are often the base material of ornamental figures. (A common example of this is a bird carved out of jade perched atop pyrite.)
Pyrite "dollars" (flat, radiating pyrite discs) are occasionally worn as necklace pendants.

SYNONYMS
Fools Gold

ALSO SEE

• The mineral Pyrite
• Gold

PICTURES

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