PYRITE

pronunciation – Pyrite – “pai-right”

A powerful mineral for manifestation, Pyrite draws in focus, determination, and clarity. This cubic crystal, also referred to as Fool’s Gold or Iron Pyrite, was utilized by ancient cultures as a fire starter, and this became the origin of the name Pyrite. Curious to learn more? Read on to learn more about Pyrite!

SPIRITUAL HEALING PROPERTIES OF PYRITE

As a crystal with a strong connection to the solar plexus chakra, Pyrite serves as an excellent motivator. It helps one to realize their goals by providing energy, motivation, and determination. This stone likewise enhances focus and memory in service of realizing the user’s full potential.

Pyrite also possesses a powerful protective energy which helps ward against negativity and stress. This quality aids in overcoming bad habits and obsessions while also providing insight into the true motivations of others, thereby discouraging deceit and manipulation.

PHYSICAL HEALING PROPERTIES OF PYRITE

While Pyrite moreso serves as a spiritual healer, it can help promote healthy cell development and regeneration in addition to supporting bone health.

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PYRITE CRYSTAL CORRESPONDENCES

HEALING PROPERTIES	Strength, Creativity, Confidence, Manifestation, Motivation
CHAKRAS	Solar Plexus
ZODIAC SIGNS	Leo
PLANETARY RULERS	Mars, Sun
NUMBERS	3
TAROT	The Empress
ELEMENTS	Earth
DEITIES	Ra, Inti, Sol, Suryadev, Huitzilopochtli, Amaterasu Ōmikami, Apollo
PAIRINGS	Pyromorphite, Wulfinite, Selenite, Chrysocolla, Orange Calcite

LORE & HISTORY

The name Pyrite comes from the Greek word pyr meaning fire. This came about as a result of the stone’s ability to create sparks when struck with stone or metal. The ancient Romans followed suit and utilized Pyrite as a fire starter.

Many Thai people have historically believed Pyrite to be a sacred stone capable of protecting against evil, demons, and black magic. Pyrite also found use across many cultures over the centuries to create jewelry and talismans.

HOW TO USE PYRITE

On the Body: Pyrite can be carried or worn to inspire focus and determination. Use this stone when working with the solar plexus chakra to clear and revitalize it.

Inside: Pyrite is highly protective; place in the home near entries and exits to block out negative energies and people.

Outside: Pyrite is best kept indoors as the elements can cause rust and deterioration.

CLEANING AND CLEANSING PYRITE

Physical Cleaning: Clean Pyrite with canned air to remove dust and debris.

Energetic Cleansing: There are numerous ways to energetically cleanse Pyrite.

• Set on or next to Selenite or Satin Spar, or set in lavender.
• Use smoke from herb bundles or incense.
• Charge under the full moonlight.

PYRITE TOXICITY AND POTENTIAL ALLERGENS

Pyrite – “Poisonous (sulfur).” (Jentoft)
“Toxic or harmful stone. Contains sulphur.” (Harton)
“Do not use…for internal use.  Contains sulfur.” (Sullivan)
“Never let it come into contact with water!” (Peschek-Böhmer 231)
“Contains sulphur.” (Hibiscus)
“Sensitive to water or washing solutions.” (Gienger 13)
“May contain intermixed Marcasite. The Marcasite with time and exposure to oxygen, may form a white powdery substance/residue which is poisonous/toxic sulfuric acid. If this occurs you should not wear next to the skin or touch. Not recommended for elixirs.” (Healing Crystals)

For more information and citations regarding toxic, poisonous, and otherwise dangerous crystals, visit our Toxic Crystals page!

GEM ELIXIRS

Pyrite contains sulfur which renders it unsafe for use in gem elixirs made with the direct method. Only use the indirect method for creating a gem elixir with this stone.

OTHER NAMES FOR PYRITE

Common Names: Fool’s Gold, Iron Pyrite
Trade Names: N/A
Trademarked Names: N/A

GEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

An iron sulfide with the chemical formula Fe²⁺S₂,  Pyrite was used as an ignition source in early firearms. It is typically found in Quartz veins, sedimentary or metamorphic rock, in coal beds, and as a replacement mineral in fossils such as Pyritized Ammonite. 

Though commonly known as Fool’s Gold, Pyrite is occasionally found with real Gold.  It forms in cuboid crystals sometimes referred to as framboids due to their raspberry resemblance.  They can also form shapes that are close to a perfect dodecahedron, and this is theorized to be responsible for geometric models that were found in Europe in the 5th century BC.

Pyrite will slowly oxidize in a moist environment and release sulfuric acid that is formed during the process. Well-crystallized specimens are generally relatively stable, but Pyrite that forms as sedimentary concretions has a tendency to decompose quickly. 

CHEMICAL FORMULA	Fe2+S2
SHAPE	Diploidal
CRYSTAL SYSTEM	Isometric
HABIT	Druse – Crystal growth in a cavity which results in numerous crystal-tipped surfaces. Stalactitic – Shaped like pendant columns as stalactites or stalagmites. Striated – Parallel lines on crystal surface or cleavage face
COLOR	Pale brass yellow
STREAK	Greehish black
LUSTER	Metallic
DIAPHANEITY	Opaque
HARDNESS	6.5 Mohs
CLEAVAGE	{100} Poor, {110} Poor
FRACTURE	Conchoidal – Fractures developed in brittle materials characterized by smoothly curving surfaces
SPECIFIC GRAVITY	5 – 5.02 kg/cm3
REFRACTIVE INDEX	2.5 – 2.7
OPTICAL PROPERTIES	N/A

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DISCLAIMER

Crystallography Gems, inc. and CrystallographyGems.com do not dispense medical advice nor prescribe the use of any technique as a form of treatment for medical problems. Always seek the advice of your medical physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions that you might have about a medical condition.