Also known as: Iron Pyrite, Fool's Gold, Katzengold, Alpine Diamond, Brass Balls, Copperas Stone, Kaltschedan, Leber Pyrites, Marcasites, Mundic, Sideropyrite, Xantho Pyrites, Iron Sulfide
Formula: FeSz
Hardness: 6-6.5
Color: Pale brass-yellow
Often labelled "fool's gold" for its metallic luster and bright yellow shade, pyrite became infamous among prospectors for its seeming visual similarity to gold. However, pyrite is both abundant and relatively valueless, rendering it a poor substitute for the much more valuable gold. It is the most common sulfide mineral and will create sparks when struck against steel.