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Pyrite

Photo: Ivar Leidus / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Pyrite

Also known as: Fool's gold

Brassy 'fool's gold' that grows in natural perfect cubes – the crystal lore stone of abundance and confidence.

  • ColourBrassy gold
  • Mineral groupSulphide
  • ChemistryFeS₂
  • Hardness (Mohs)6–6.5
  • Crystal systemCubic
  • Where it's foundSpain (Navajún), Peru, Italy (Elba), USA, China
  • ChakraSolar Plexus
  • ZodiacLeo

What is Pyrite?

Pyrite is iron sulphide, nicknamed "fool's gold" because its brassy shine fooled many prospectors. It is famous for growing in naturally perfect cubes – the most striking come from Navajún in La Rioja, Spain, and look machine-made.

The name comes from the Greek pyr, "fire", because pyrite throws sparks when struck against steel – it was used in early firearms (wheellock guns) and to start fires.

Pyrite astrology & birthstone

  • Zodiac signsLeo
  • Ruling planetMars
  • ElementFire
  • Birthstone month—

Zodiac, planet and element links come from crystal-lore traditions and vary between authors. Birthstone months follow the American Gem Society list.

Pyrite meaning & traditional properties

Pyrite is associated with abundance, confidence and protection in crystal traditions – a popular stone for business and money intentions.

  • Abundance
  • Confidence
  • Protection

Traditional and metaphysical properties are shared for cultural and educational interest. Crystals are not a substitute for medical advice or treatment.

How to use Pyrite

  • Keep pyrite on your desk, near your till or in your wallet.
  • Display a cube or cluster where it catches the light.

How to care for Pyrite

Keep pyrite dry. Moisture can cause it to tarnish and slowly break down ("pyrite decay"). Wipe with a dry cloth and store with a silica gel sachet in humid places.

Shop Pyrite

Hand-picked pyrite crystals and jewellery from our Paralimni workshop.

Rituals & pairings

Pair Pyrite with a abundance & success ritual

A new-moon or Monday-morning ritual for goals, business and prosperity.

Traditionally paired with: Cinnamon, orange or patchouli incense · A green or gold candle · Palo santo to start fresh

  • Clear your desk or workspace with palo santo.
  • Light a green or gold candle and cinnamon, orange or patchouli incense.
  • Write your goal on paper and place your crystal on top of it.
  • Keep the crystal on your desk, near your till or in your wallet as a reminder.

Safety: never leave candles, incense or smudge sticks burning unattended, keep them away from children, pets and anything flammable, and ventilate the room. Rituals are shared as tradition, not as a treatment.

Ritual oils, essential oils & perfumes

Deepen your practice: tarot & oracle cards

Wear it & work with it

Pyrite jewellery & pendulums

Pyrite FAQs

Are pyrite cubes natural?

Yes – pyrite naturally grows in near-perfect cubes.

Can pyrite get wet?

Avoid water and humidity; it can tarnish and decay.

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  • Tiger's Eye
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    Golden-brown silky quartz with a moving band of light – a classic crystal lore stone of courage and focus.

  • Hematite
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    Metallic iron oxide – the main ore of iron, found even on Mars, and a classic grounding stone.

  • Lapis Lazuli
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    Royal blue rock flecked with gold pyrite, mined in Afghanistan for over 6,000 years and ground into ultrama...

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