Introduction
Pyrite (Py), with the chemical formula FeS2, is a very common mineral composed mainly of iron disulfide. Its name, of Greek origin, comes from "πῦρ" "pyr", which means fire. In fact, this mineral, if hit with a metal, releases sparks.
It is mainly of magmatic origin, although it can be found in any type of rock.
It comes in the form of crystals of various dress, yellow in color, with metallic luster. Its crystals are fragile and have a conchoidal fracture. The most common forms are the cube, whose faces are streaked according to the three directions (triglyph streak), and the pentagon-dodecahedron.
Pyrite is the most abundant of the natural sulphides and is one of the most popular iron minerals.
In the superficial part of its deposits, pyrite alters spontaneously, giving rise to limonite products, which constitute the so-called iron cap. By altering, pyrite aids in the transformation of other more resistant sulphides and can produce sulfuric acid. 
Cubic Pyrite
Curiosity
Many legends and beliefs have developed around this mineral.
The Greeks, who gave the name to pyrite, were convinced that there was fire inside and, therefore, used it both to forge protective amulets and for therapeutic purposes, as they believed it was used to heat the body and radiate energy.
Its color, very similar to gold, in the past, often caused it to be confused with this metal, so much so that, especially in the Middle Ages, pyrite was also known as "the gold of fools".
Some populations, including the French one, have considered it a stone of health since the Middle Ages, when it was considered very important because, in addition to being similar to gold, it was considered a source of heat.
The Mayans and Aztecs used it to build mirrored floors with which divinatory rituals were practiced.
Even the Native Americans considered it a magical and powerful stone.
When heated with a flame, pyrite emits sulphides giving off an unpleasant odor, reminiscent of that of rotten eggs. 
Fragments of Pyrite
Where is it?
Pyrite is mined in deposits around the world. These include those present in Spain, Italy, Japan, the United States, Norway, Cyprus, Russia.
In Canada, Alaska, Australia and Brazil, on the other hand, there are deposits in which gold pyrite is present.
Property
- Class of Minerals: Sulphides
- Crystalline group: Monometric
- Crystalline system: Monocline
- Chemical formula: FeS2
- Hardness (Mohrs): 6-6.5
- Density: 5-5.2 g / cm3
Uses
Pyrite was used in the past as a starting product for the production of sulfuric acid and for the extraction of sulfur. In addition, pyrite ashes were used in the steel industry. Today it is used for the creation of semi-precious necklaces and bracelets. 
Pyrite stone necklace
Metaphysical angle
In the metaphysical world it is believed that pyrite is a protective stone that draws energy from the Earth. In love, pyrite would protect against negative thoughts and emotions.
