What is Pyrite?
Pyrite is an iron sulfide mineral with a metallic sheen. It has also a brassy colour that is comparable to gold, because of this resemblance it is also known by the name Fools Gold. It derives from the cubic crystal system and has an opaque transparency and a brittle feel. Pyrite’s connotation is purity and unblocks creativity.
Have a look at our important guide to healing gemstones and select a crystal that captures you.
Anything but a Fool’s Gold
- Takes it’s name from the Greek word for fire
- Mined in Namibia, Peru, Spain, Mexico, and Canada
- A protective stone good for blocking EMFs
Not all that glimmers is gold as Pyrite proves with its rich colours and profound defensive capabilities. Pyrite meaning originates from the Greek word for Pyr, which translates to fire – an echo of how the light catches on the surface of the stone, or possibly in tribute to the powerful masculine energy and sense of pure passion.
Despite its illustrious name, Pyrite is simply an earth stone rich in iron sulfide – hewn from the vast reaches of Namibia, the mystical heartlands of Peru, the golden highlands of Spain and Mexico, and the cold distances of Canada. With hues of mild brass or a deeper gold tint, Pyrite is a lovely stone that holds its own when it comes to a stunning metallic brilliance. In respect to its name, it’s one of the only healing crystals that can also create sparks If struck hard enough and has a similar look and feel to it as Marcasite. Pyrite has earnt the moniker Fools Gold, because to its visually striking comparable appearance to the precious metal. But far from foolish, anyone who holds Pyrite close to their heart will find their personal powers are increased.
At its heart, Pyrite is all about protection. It’s a stone that wants to shield and protect its wearer in every way possible. Whether keeping you safe from emotional vamps or safeguarding you from psychic attacks, cutting through negative vibrations, clearing EMF pollution or simply halting those toxic thought patterns from racing through your head, Pyrite is ever willing to keep you clean. When we are able to free ourselves of those toxic attachments, we find that life loses its facades and we are able to see straight through to the truth and live in sweet sincerity. If you want to know more about the healing qualities and protecting properties of Pyrite keep reading.
If Pyrite doesn’t ignite a fire in your heart, choose a stone that moves you. Check out our Guide to Essential Healing Gemstones and pick a crystal that calls to your soul.
Pyrite Healing Properties
Pyrite is all about keeping you strong and solid and ever free from the shackles of control. It seems to have an intuitive quality that tries to keep you out of harm’s way — both spiritually and emotionally. It is also a stone that promotes creativity and offers a splash of additional shine. It develops strength and leadership traits, inviting you to step up to your own potential because your willpower and well-being are ever in check.
Physical Healing Properties
- Builds strength and stamina
- Helps the body fight viral infections
When it comes to physical healing, Pyrite is all about building up your strength and stamina. Remember, it’s a healing stone that leans on its masculine energy. Because of its love of protection, Pyrite is a wonderful stone for cutting down on environmental pollution and the impacts of this on the body. It’s claimed to be a valuable tool in battling viral infections, decreasing fevers, and strengthening the immune system along with the respiratory system. Pyrite is thought to boost lung health and can even be good for those who suffer from asthma and other breath related disorders. It also keeps the blood in healthy flow and can stimulate the endocrine function and aid with fertility concerns.
Mental & Emotional Healing Properties
- Boosts confidence levels
- Helps overcome fears and anxieties
When it comes to emotional strengthening this is where Pyrite truly sparks a fire in the spirit. Once we feel shielded from outside forces it’s so much easier to feel comfortable and secure in one’s own skin. You will find confidence levels starting to creep up, you will be able to bring out those inherent leadership skills you could have had packed away, and you will easily be able to see past pretence and to live in the light of honesty.
Pyrite tends to set the spirit on fire — in a positive way! It rekindles any lost drive or faraway desire and makes you feel like you are ready to enjoy life once again. If you have been wrapped up in depressed thoughts or wallowing in anxiety, Pyrite is here to assist you walk away from those thoughts and anxieties, to overcome all that is holding you back, and to take action to live the life you were born for.
Metaphysical Properties
- Clears blockages in the Sacral and Solar Plexus chakra
- Protects from negative energy
Positive energy runs rampant in the Pyrite stone. It’s all about cleaning away cobwebs of negative energy and ensuring that you never slip into the darkness but instead feel strong and inspired to move into the light. To help facilitate this inner power and za ze for life, Pyrite works on strengthening and clearing both the solar plexus chakra and the sacral chakra. These are the chakras that carry our deep-set passion and energy for life, our sexual prowess, and our flawless enjoyment of creative thought and action. When they are obstructed, we can feel as though our senses are deadened, yet when aroused, we instantly feel like we can soar.
Zodiac Birthstone
- Well suited to Leos
When Pyrite’s destiny is written in the stars, the shimmering yellow stone is known for being an ideal match for Leo. Like the lion’s roar, Leos are recognized for their fiery nature and even for being born leaders. All their attributes of being strong, proud, and ever ready for action are brilliantly complemented by the golden nature of Pyrite. In fact, Pyrite even acts to fill in the gaps, aiding those strong-headed Leos to stay protected when they may be straying over into confrontational area. Its earthly aspect balances out the fiery element of the Leo, guaranteeing that no matter how far they leap, they stay anchored and ever-present.
If you want to know which stone is most suited for your own star sign, take a look at our zodiac guide to picking the correct gemstone for your astrological sign.
How to Use Pyrite
Check out our pyrite energy bracelet!
- Wear for energy and protection.
- Place in the home to attract wealth and abundance
Despite its gold-like look, there’s no need to stash Pyrite away. This stone will bring lots of power to your soul and your surrounds and is lovely enough to be on show. Pyrite makes a fantastic partner for balancing out your feng shui and when worn as like protective amulets in gemstone jewelry can carry those healing thoughts straight to where they are needed the most. Take a look at five ways you may say yes to more Greek fire in your life…
Home & Office
Pyrite is a great Feng Shui player because to those tremendous defensive characteristics. If you want to keep your dwelling beautifully shielded from any negative forces, place a chunk of Pyrite beside entryways to soak up any bad juju before it even gets the chance to seep in. Beyond the protective feelings, Pyrite isn’t just about blocking but is also clever when it comes to funneling the proper kind of energy into your home. It’s a terrific stone for attracting money, abundance, and lashings of good luck and for those reasons, chunks of Pyrite will do well when placed in workshops, studios, and any site where creative thinking takes place.
Jewelry
One of the best ways to bring out the energy of the Pyrite crystal is to wear it as an amulet or talisman. By purchasing a Pyrite Energy Bracelet or other jewelry style that places Pyrite close to the skin, you aren’t obstructing this beautiful stone from completing its critical task. By having direct skin contact, you are giving Pyrite the finest chance for nourishing the body with its healing energy and you are getting the stone at the absolute peak of its power game.
Additional stones that work well when coupled with the protecting and healing qualities of Pyrite include Obsidian. Obsidian is another of the great defenders in the crystal world. Formed from the swift cooling of volcanic lava, this stone is sheer raw energy and this offers it a large amount of natural power. Black Obsidian is one of the strongest stones that will work with Pyrite on defense, truth-seeking, and gorgeous anchoring. Other stones include cheery Citrine with its tremendous positive energy, ever ready to provide a slant of light to those darker days. Carnelian also contributes its ruby fire bright energy and can operate in harmony with Pyrite to boost those lower chakras, tap into creativity, and stir up sexual or life force energy. Lapis Lazuli lends its mystical and higher vibrations to work nicely with Pyrite’s third eye connections. Fluorite is another crystal that brings extra powers to Pyrite, as this is another stone all about intuition, truth-seeking and having your finger on the pulse of positive. Angelic Selenite, Calcite, and fortunate Jade are two additional stones that you could pair with Pyrite also.
How to Cleanse Pyrite
- Cleanse by smudging
- Charge by placing in the earth
Maintaining your crystals clear and charged is the best way to bring out their therapeutic qualities. All crystals (and especially those serving as defenders and soaking up negative energy) can feel full and exhausted at times. You may bring them back to life with relatively basic washing methods. While certain crystals and stones react well to being cleaned with soap and warm water, Pyrite isn’t such a stone to enjoy this kind of treatment. Iron Pyrite, if it gets it might discolor or even rust. You want to keep your Pyrite shining. Instead of washing with water, you can smudge it with sage or other herbal smoke. By smudging your Pyrite you are wafting away that unwanted energy and as this stone is connected to the fire world (remember the word Pyrite derives from fire), it reacts incredibly well to a smoke centric cleanse.
To recharge Pyrite you can place it in the earth to let it become richer in its native element. You may also bury it in sea salt for a few hours to allow it go through a genuinely deep cleanse and recharge. Salt is of the earth and Pyrite interacts well to this. If burying your crystal in salt sounds too excessive, you can always just lay it next to a bowl of salt and even if the two don’t touch, the salt will still be able to absorb that negative energy.
Geological Properties
| Chemical Classification | Sulfide mineral |
| Chemical Formula | FeS2 |
| Crystal System | Isometric |
| Color | Brassy yellow, greenish, or gray |
| Streak | Greenish-black |
| Luster | Metallic |
| Transparency | Opaque |
| Occurrence | Sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks |
| Formation | Hydrothermal, sedimentary, or magmatic processes |
| Diaphaneity | Opaque |
| Cleavage | Poor/Fair in six directions |
| Mohs Hardness | 6-6.5 |
| Specific Gravity | 4.9-5.2 |
| Diagnostic Properties | Brassy yellow color, metallic luster, cubic crystal habit |
| Chemical Composition | FeS2 |
| Crystal System | Isometric |
| Optical Properties | Isotropic |
| Refractive Index | n = 2.42 |
| Birefringence | None |
| 2V angle | Not applicable |
| Dispersion | None |
| Other characteristics | May contain trace elements of gold or other metals |
Final Thoughts on Pyrite
Pyrite is an extraordinary crystal ever able to tap into unlimited possibility and can undoubtedly bring out the finest in your soul. For people who find themselves fascinated by the gleam of this stone and for those who feel like they can cut down on paranoia and suspicious thoughts by knowing that they have protection at all times, Pyrite makes for a great investment. As said, it’s not all about setting up walls of protection using Pyrite. It’s also a stone that invites abundance, luck, joy, truth, and many other traits that assist your soul to glow.
What do you think of the sulfide mineral brilliant Pyrite stone? Does it meet your soulful fantasies or is it closer to fools gold? Share your opinions with us in the comments.
Pyrite FAQs
What is Pyrite?
Pyrite is a mineral that is sometimes termed Fool’s Gold as it can have a sparkling golden look. It is produced from iron sulfide and comes from the cubic crystal structure. Pyrite has a metallic brilliance to it and a brittle feel. It is known for its protecting powers and for encouraging inner strength along with unlocking creativity and purifying spaces.
What is Pyrite used for?
With its brassy golden light and hint of sparkle, Pyrite is renowned to be a stone of vitality, protection, and healing. It’s a mineral that interacts with the solar plexus and sacral chakras – both of these chakras are home to our creative spirit but also our warrior energy. Pyrite can open these portions of us and aid to heighten our sense of personal power and self-esteem. It also clears out unwanted vibrations and can keep you safe from EMF’s.
Is Pyrite magnetic?
Pyrite is not believed to be magnetic, yet several minerals that relate to Pyrite are considered to be mildly magnetic. Pyrrhotite is the iron sulfide mineral that is regarded to be weakly magnetic and is sometimes dubbed magnetic Pyrite because it shares the same color pattern as the original material.
How much is Pyrite worth?
Pyrite’s pricing fluctuates tremendously and the cost is continually fluctuating. It can cost anything between $1-$8 per carat depending on the quality, cut, and size of the stone. Rough cuts of Pyrite will cost less than cabochons and Pyrite gemstones. Certain Pyrite specimens will also include genuine gold which will drive the price up substantially.
What is Pyrite excellent for?
Pyrite is an excellent stone to have around if you want to defend your body, heal your mind, and enable deeper inner strength and success. Physically, Pyrite can enable you to boost your stamina and can also protect you from the bad side effects of EMF’s. Mentally it can enhance creativity and self-confidence, along with assisting you to transcend beyond ideas of dread. Spiritually, it can unclog the sacral and solar plexus chakras, clear away harmful thinking, and stimulate your senses that lead to a joy for life.
Is Pyrite a mineral?
Indeed, Pyrite is a mineral. It is a mineral derived from iron sulfide and can be found in rocks of various eras. It can also be found in a wide range of geological conditions which is why it’s such a popular and abundant stone.
Can Pyrite become wet?
As Pyrite has significant iron content, you want to avoid putting it in contact with any water or it may lead to your magnificent golden gemstone rusting or changing color. Instead of using water to wash it, you should employ non invasive methods like smudging, sound bathing, or leaving it in the presence of cleansing crystals like Clear Quartz and Selenite.
What does Pyrite look like?
Pyrite commonly earns the name Fools Gold as it shares comparable brassy qualities to the precious metal. Pyrite has a bright brassy tint with a metallic sheen. It can be fragile and is commonly found in angular chunks and sometimes has similar faces to a cube. When you look attentively at the surface of Pyrite it’s not unusual to observe sharp tiny cubes.
Where is Pyrite found?
Pyrite can be found across the planet as it forms under different geological circumstances and in many kinds of rock structures. You may usually find Pyrite in Peru, Namibia, Spain, Mexico, Canada, Italy, Kazakhstan, and the USA.
How to charge Pyrite?
Pyrite works hard to keep negative energy, poisonous thoughts, and EMFs at bay. This implies that it surely benefits from charging it up every now and then to guarantee its working at the top of its game. You can charge your Pyrite by placing it in soil to let it reconnect with that earthly element. You can also charge it by placing it next to a bowl of salt as it’s highly reactive to the energy of items that come from the soil.
How to use Pyrite to attract wealth?
Pyrite is a great stone for attracting wealth and prosperity – don’t allow the term of fool’s gold misguide you. If you wish to employ Pyrite to attract prosperity you can place a piece in your purse so its bountiful energy calls in wealth. You can also install it in your work environment so it can assist you attract new business. Another approach of employing Pyrite to build your wealth is to set that intention with the stone in hand.
What color is Pyrite?
Pyrite tends to be a brassy golden tint comparable to gold itself. It is this shared coloration and metallic shine that earns it the moniker of Fools Gold. It can also come in more tarnished tones and can even have black or green streaks to it which will make the gemstone appear darker than it truly is.
Can gold and Pyrite be found together?
Yes. Pyrite and Gold both originate under comparable circumstances and one can sometimes lead to the other. Gold can also be found inside Pyrite as an inclusion which will impact the worth and value of the gemstone. When Pyrite is found it may also be a compass notifying you that gold is also closeby.
How to identify gold from Pyrite?
While Pyrite and Gold share certain similarities they are actually very distinct. Both Gold and Pyrite will have a brassy yellow tint and a metallic shine, however Pyrite will often keep a different natural shape to Gold. Pyrite usually has sharper edges whereas gold is softer in shape and spherical. Pyrite is also a tougher material and will scratch glass whilst gold will not.
Is Pyrite a metal?
Pyrite is a metallic mineral. Composed from iron and sulfur, this brilliant brassy gem is commonly considered an ore of gold. Pyrite is regarded to be a mineral rather than a metal.
How is Pyrite formed?
Pyrite is born from sedimentary rocks while it can also form from igneous and metamorphic rocks too. It tends to blossom in low oxygen settings that are rich in iron and sulfur. It comes up in vein deposits and forms alongside quartz, limestone, shale, and coal – not to mention with gold and copper too. It’s usual to locate Pyrite near to the contact point of eruptive rocks.
How to clean Pyrite?
You should be mindful to keep your Pyrite away from water throughout any energy or bodily cleansing ceremony. The easiest approach to clean your Pyrite safely is to utilize gentle methods like smudging with palo santo or sage, purifying with crystals like Selenite and Clear Quartz, or using visualization techniques like singing bowls.
Is iron Pyrite magnetic?
No, iron Pyrite is not naturally magnetic. Certain near relatives of Pyrite are thought to be mildly magnetic – such as pyrrhotite. This is because magnetism doesn’t come as a property of an element but as a property of a compound.
Is Pyrite fools gold?
True, Pyrite is commonly termed Fool’s Gold as it shares so many superficial similarities with gold. Both gold and Pyrite have a metallic brassy yellow look but this is where the similarities stop. Pyrite tends to be created in cubic shape whereas gold is smoother and rounder. Pyrite is a mineral whereas gold is a native metal. Yet, these two elements can form close together and Pyrite sometimes has gold inclusions within it.
What type of rock is Pyrite?
Pyrite is not a rock, it is believed to be a mineral. Nonetheless, Pyrite does form from rocks and most typically sedimentary rocks, however it also arises from metamorphic and igneous rocks too as long as iron and sulphur are present.
What does Pyrite do?
Pyrite is a mineral that has a lot of defensive energy. It might help to create an energetic barrier around you or the place it’s in to keep negative feelings and EMF’s at bay. It can also be used to draw in abundance. Pyrite is a chakra cleanser too and can assist to clear obstructions in the sacral and solar plexus chakras. It can also improve self-confidence and support creative thinking.
What chakra is Pyrite?
Pyrite is associated to the sacral chakra and the solar plexus chakra. The solar plexus chakra is responsible for our sense of self-esteem and the seat of our own strength. It is where our warrior spirit resides. Our sacral chakra is where our creativity, sexuality, and feeling of play can be located – it is our pleasure doorway. Pyrite clears obstructions from both of these locations so that you can grow in confidence, spark creativity, and enjoy a life of pleasure.
What is iron Pyrite?
Iron Pyrite is a golden mineral with a brassy yellow colour and a metallic sheen. It is made up of iron sulfide. It can be created in igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks and in both high and low temperatures (although it frequently demands a low oxygen environment) (although it often needs a low oxygen environment). While Pyrite is sometimes confused for the precious metal of gold, it is actually a mineral.
What is Pyrite comprised of?
Pyrite is a creation of iron and sulfur. It is a metallic mineral that has a brassy yellow colour with a metallic shine. It shares comparable aesthetics to gold which gets it the moniker of fools gold. It is regarded to be one of the most abundant sulfide minerals on the globe.
How to discover Pyrite?
As an abundant mineral that can be found across the planet, you shouldn’t have any trouble acquiring Pyrite for your collection. You may typically find Pyrite in the stockpile of any reliable gemseller. Always make sure you work with reliable crystal suppliers so you know your Pyrite is the real deal and hopefully ethically sourced.
How to use Pyrite?
There are various methods to call on the healing qualities of Pyrite. One of the greatest methods to use Pyrite is to wear it. Putting the stone in direct touch with the skin can assist balance the chakras, keep your energy fields protected, and surround you in an energy of riches. You can also place Pyrite in the home if you want to maintain your area protected or cut off the side effects of EMFs.
How to wear Pyrite stone?
Make the most of Pyrite’s powerful vitality by wearing it as jewelry. Wear it as a bracelet on your left hand to receive all the treasures that Pyrite has to provide, to tempt creative ideas to flourish, and to welcome in abundance. Wear it on your right hand to let go of any negativity you are holding and to increase your sense of self-confidence. You can also wear Pyrite stone as a pendant or lucky amulet and as a ring.
What is the crystal structure of Pyrite?
Pyrite is part of the cubic crystal structure which means it naturally forms into cube-like shapes. Along with developing as a cube, Pyrite can also form as octahedral (when two pyramids form with their ground base fused together) or as pyritohedron with five-sided faces. It can also form in shapeless grains. The mystical cubic shape of Pyrite is a reminder of the balance, power, and grounding this versatile stone can bestow.
When was Pyrite discovered?
Pyrite has a long history. It was first found back in 1432 by Dr. John Jacabo. It draws its name from the Greek word for fire as it emits a spark when struck and also carries that sparkle beneath its surface.
Where can I acquire Pyrite stone?
Pyrite is a stone of abundance in more ways than one. Not only does it attract abundance but it is also found in abundance across the world. This means that you shouldn’t have any trouble finding Pyrite from any trustworthy gem merchant. Always make sure you are buying from the best vendor you can discover to ensure your Pyrite is ethically sourced and the real deal.
Where to place Pyrite in the home?
Pyrite is a beautiful stone to include into your home. With its energy of abundance, power, protection, and creativity – it contains every aspect you need for a healthy and peaceful home setting. If you wish to keep bad energy out, plant Pyrite at the entranceways of your property. You may also place it in workspaces and studios to bring about creative feelings.
Are Pyrite cubes natural?
Undoubtedly, one of the most astonishing features about Pyrite is the fact that it can develop naturally in cube-like formations. That doesn’t mean that all Pyrite cubes are natural as some will be manipulated into the sacred shape (especially the larger cubes) (especially the larger cubes). So there’s every chance your cubic Pyrite is completely as nature intended.
Can you wash Pyrite?
No, as Pyrite is a mineral with loads of iron woven into its composition, you should avoid getting this gem wet. When Pyrite is exposed to water it may be more likely to rust or discolor. If you need to cleanse your Pyrite you can accomplish this the energetic way, by employing smudging or sound bathing methods or by using additional cleansing crystals for a surface to surface cleanse.
Is Pyrite soft?
Pyrite is a medium to hard stone that scores between a 6 and 6.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. A hard stone is estimated to be a 7 on the Mohs hardness scale and a soft stone would generally score a 2. Gold is a much softer element than Pyrite and this is one of the ways you can determine the difference between gold and Pyrite.
Is rainbow Pyrite natural?
Rainbow Pyrite is a natural stone that has only recently been identified. Brimming with stunning rainbow colours and with a reflecting brilliance and polished surface, Rainbow Pyrite is a rare and glittering golden stone. This iridescent form of Pyrite has only been identified in the Volga River in Russia.
Which hand to wear Pyrite bracelet?
You can wear a Pyrite bracelet on your left hand which is your receiving hand if you wish to bring in abundance and to absorb all that magnificent creative energy. If you wish to let go of negativity, cleanse any chakra blockages, and keep toxic energies at away you should wear it on your giving hand which is your right and more active hand.
Is Pyrite a gemstone?
Pyrite is regarded to be a metallic mineral but is sometimes referred to as a gemstone as the names are commonly used interchangeably. This is because most gemstones are minerals which have been selected for their visual attractiveness.
What’s Pyrite?
Pyrite is a metallic brassy yellow mineral that is commonly termed ‘fool’s gold’ as it shares comparable aesthetic qualities to the valuable metal. It is a mineral comprised of sulfur and iron. Pyrite is a protective stone with unique healing abilities centered around keeping negative energy at away, developing self-confidence, along with welcome greater creativity and abundance into your life.
Why is Pyrite square?
Pyrite is part of the cubic crystal structure which is why it forms in a square shape. Pyrite doesn’t necessarily form in square shapes though, it can also form in flakes, little cubes, and also as a gold surface on fossils.
Does Pyrite rust?
Yeah, Pyrite does have the ability to rust especially when it meets water. This is because of the high iron level in Pyrite. To stop your Pyrite rusting or losing color, you should do your best to keep it safe and dry and prevent it from getting wet.
How to polish Pyrite?
Pyrite can be a tricky stone to polish however if you want to polish it by hand you should use a soft-bristled toothbrush, a little vinegar, and some water. While it’s usually a good idea to keep Pyrite away from water, it does aid in the cleaning process – just make sure you fully dry your Pyrite gem after washing. Once you have cleaned the nooks and crannies you may polish it with a soft cloth to bring up the sheen.
Does Pyrite oxidize?
Indeed, Pyrite can oxidize which is why it’s so vital to keep it away from wet or moist circumstances if possible. If you want Pyrite to preserve its beautiful metallic sheen and golden color, you need to keep it dry to avoid it becoming oxidized and tarnished with black or green colors.