The financial worth of iron pyrite, generally referred to as “idiot’s gold,” is usually low, regardless of its metallic luster and resemblance to gold. Elements influencing its worth embody the scale, high quality, and type of the specimen. Whereas small, unrefined items is perhaps price only some {dollars}, bigger, well-formed crystals can generally command increased costs, notably amongst collectors or for ornamental functions. One may encounter pyrite in varied varieties, 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 useful as a valuable metallic, pyrite has served varied sensible functions all through historical past. Its use in creating sparks for hearth 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.
