The financial worth of iron pyrite, generally often known as “idiot’s gold,” is usually low, regardless of its metallic luster and resemblance to gold. Components influencing its value embrace the scale, high quality, and type of the specimen. Whereas small, unrefined items is likely to be value only some {dollars}, bigger, well-formed crystals can typically command increased costs, significantly amongst collectors or for ornamental functions. One may encounter pyrite in numerous types, together with cubic crystals, clusters, and at the same time as inclusions inside different minerals.
Traditionally, pyrite’s metallic look led to its misidentification as gold, therefore its nickname. Whereas not inherently helpful as a treasured metallic, pyrite has served numerous sensible functions all through historical past. Its use in creating sparks for fireplace beginning is well-documented, and it has additionally been a supply of sulfur and iron. Moreover, its crystalline construction and aesthetic qualities have made it a topic of scientific research and a sought-after collectible.
