Pyrite Jewelry

A useful mineral, this stone was used by ancient persons as a "fire starter" because striking this stone with another rock, produces sparks.

The Aztec's made Pyrite mirrors for divination.

Healing Properties: Considered stimulating to the cardiovascular system as well as good for throat problems, possibly because it retains heat well.

Scientific Properties: Composed of Iron Sulfide. An interesting occurrence of Pyrite Dollars occurs only in the sulfur rich coal fields of Illinois. Pyrite is an important ore of iron. Pyrite and water mix to create sulfuric acid, and the areas around high-sulfur coal and mineral mines are usually barren of all vegetation.

Identified by the tin-like golden luster (Gold is more yellow/orange) and by the well-formed crystals. Marcasite is a similar mineral, however less suitable for jewelry as it tends to tarnish very quickly.

Pyrite is found commonly throughout the world. Notable US locations include Illinois, Colorado and Utah. International locales producing fine specimens include Peru , Bolivia, Sweden, Spain and Mexico. Hardness: 6-6.5 on the Moh's Hardness Scale

Buyer Beware! Pyrite may be easily mistaken for Gold. A quick test? Take the "golden fleck" suspected of being gold and gently bite it. If it flakes--you've got Pyrite. If it bends--you may have Gold. Also remember that while pyrite IS heavy (about 5 times heavier than water), Gold is about 19 times heavier than water. Gold generally has a more "orange" or darker yellow appearance, while Pyrite tends to appear more "tin-yellow-like" in color.

Disclaimer: Newage Enterprises makes no claims as to the healing properties of this gemstone. We provide information on legends surrounding this stone's mystical and healing properties which allow the informed user to make their own decision.

Copyright © 2000-2008, Newage Enterprises, all rights reserved.
This site contains copyrighted material which may not be copied, distributed or used in any way without expressed written consent.