Scientific

Commonly known as “Fool’s Gold”, pyrite is a bright brass-yellow iron sulfide (FeS2) mineral and is the most common sulfide mineral.  It forms at both high and low temperatures, usually in small quantities and is found in all types of rock worldwide.  Because of its bright metallic luster and weight, inexperienced prospectors often mistake it for gold.  However, pyrite is often associated with gold and in some cases contains enough gold to be worth mining.  Pyrite often occurs in well-formed crystals in the shape of cubes, octahedrons, or pyritohedrons, which often have striated faces. Iron sulfide that forms with an orthorhombic crystal structure is known as marcasite. The conditions of pyrite formation in the sedimentary environment require a supply of iron, sulfur, and minimal oxygen. This often occurs in association with decaying organic materials as the decaying process consumes oxygen and releases sulfur. For this reason, pyrite commonly and preferentially occurs in dark-colored organic-rich sediments such as coal and black shale. The pyrite often replaces organic materials such as plant debris and shells to create beautiful pyrite fossils.

Use

Pyrite is occasionally used as a gemstone as it can be turned into beads, cut into cabochons, faceted, and carved into shapes.  However, it tarnishes easily.  At one time it was an important source for sulfur which is now produced as a byproduct of oil and gas processing, though some sulfur is still produced from pyrite as a byproduct of gold production.  Some pyrite can contain 0.25% gold which equates to about 73 troy ounces of gold per ton of pyrite.  At $1500 per oz, that equals $109,000 per ton of pyrite, which depending on the recovery process may not be economic. 

Meaning

Pyrite is a powerful protection stone which shields and protects against all forms of negative vibrations and/or energy, working on the physical, etheric, and emotional levels and is excellent to wear or carry as an amulet to deflect harm and danger  It stimulates the intellect and enhances memory, helping to recall relevant information when needed.  Pyrite assists one in seeing behind facades, promoting an understanding of that which lies beneath words and actions.  The ancient Incas used Pyrite for meditation and divination.

Pyrite inspires the universal energies to activate the nourishing energies of the body.  It encourages the ideal of health, intellect, and emotional well-being.  It allows one to recognize the purity of the universe.

It can be used in the treatment of bones and in the healing of cell formation.  It treats lung disorders and bronchitis and has been used to reduce swelling and fevers.  Pyrite aids in the treatment of infective disease, whilst also providing protection from the disease for the caregivers.