Search: 32 results found for "pyrite cube"

Pyrite on Dolomite Mineral Specimen 6.3cm Tali & Loz Crystals

Pyrite on Dolomite Mineral Specimen | 140g

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448,00 kr

Pyritised Ammonite from France 17.70gr

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960,00 kr

Pyrite Tumblestones 15-25mm

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52,00 kr

Pyrite In Serpentine Towers, Intuitively Chosen

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346,00 kr

Turquoise with Pyrite 3.2cm | Morenci, Arizona, USA

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922,00 kr

Ammonite From Madagascar with Pyrite 10.5cm

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576,00 kr

Confidence Crystal Gift Set

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128,00 kr

Pyrite Pseudomorph after Pyrrhotite Specimen 1KG, Trepca Yugoslavia Specimen Tali & Loz Crystals

Pyrite Pseudomorph after Pyrrhotite Specimen | 1kg | Trepča, Yugoslavia

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3.200,00 kr

Australian Broken Hill Tumblestones 20-30mm

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52,00 kr

Serpentine Cube Tumblestones 15-25mm

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58,00 kr

Kansas Pop Rocks 2cm | Kansas USA

(0)

192,00 kr

Lapis Lazuli Egg | 0.6kg | Madani, Afghanistan

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1.216,00 kr

Lapis Lazuli Cabochon | 2.4cm | Afghanistan

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180,00 kr

Lapis Lazuli Cabochon | 1.1cm | Afghanistan

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192,00 kr

Lapis Lazuli Shiva | 6.5cm | Afghanistan

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576,00 kr

Lapis Lazuli Egg | 1.1kg | Madani, Afghanistan

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1.600,00 kr

Serpentine Tumblestones 20-30mm Light

(0)

52,00 kr

Leo Zodiac Crystal Set

(2)

154,00 kr

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Pyrite: The Mineral That Fooled the World and Still Fascinates It

What is Pyrite? Mineral Group: Sulphide | Category: Iron Sulphide | Formula: FeS₂ | Hardness: 6 to 6.5 (Mohs) Pyrite is an iron sulphide mineral (FeS₂) and one of the most abundant and widely distributed sulphide minerals on Earth. It is immediately recognisable by its brassy, metallic gold colouration and tendency to form geometrically precise cubic, octahedral, or pyritohedral crystals, a habit so distinctive that it has made Pyrite one of the most recognisable minerals in both scientific and collector contexts. Its popular name, Fool's Gold, reflects a long history of mistaken identity. Prospectors throughout history, particularly during the gold rushes of the 18th and 19th centuries, regularly confused Pyrite with native Gold due to their similar colour and metallic lustre. The two minerals are in fact straightforward to distinguish: Gold is considerably denser, softer, and does not produce a greenish-black streak when drawn across an unglazed ceramic surface, while Pyrite does. The name Pyrite derives from the Greek word pyr, meaning fire, a reference to the sparks produced when Pyrite is struck against iron or steel. This property was exploited practically for centuries, from ancient fire-starting tools to the mechanisms of early firearms. How Does It Form? Pyrite forms in an exceptionally wide range of geological environments, which accounts for its abundance and global distribution. It crystallises from sulphur-rich hydrothermal fluids within veins and fractures in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It also forms through low-temperature processes in sedimentary environments, particularly in marine muds and shales where organic matter creates reducing conditions that favour iron sulphide precipitation. In hydrothermal settings, iron and sulphur-rich fluids moving through the crust cool and deposit Pyrite alongside other sulphide and oxide minerals, including Galena and Quartz. This is the environment that produces the large, well-formed cubic and octahedral crystals most prized by collectors, with some of the finest examples coming from Navajún in Spain, where perfectly formed cubic Pyrite crystals up to several centimetres across occur in a matrix of clay-rich sedimentary rock. In sedimentary environments, Pyrite forms through bacterial sulphate reduction, a process by which sulphate-reducing bacteria break down organic matter in oxygen-poor conditions, releasing sulphide that combines with iron in the surrounding sediment. Pyrite is also a common accessory mineral in coal deposits and is frequently found replacing organic material in fossils, producing the distinctive golden fossilised shells and ammonites often encountered in collector markets. Notable sources of fine Pyrite specimens include Spain, Peru, Russia, the United States, and Italy. Key Physical Properties at a Glance Property Detail Chemical Formula FeS₂ (Iron Sulphide) Crystal System Isometric (Cubic) Hardness 6 to 6.5 (Mohs) Specific Gravity 4.95 to 5.10 Lustre Metallic Streak Greenish-black to brownish-black Fracture Uneven Cleavage Poor Safe to Cleanse in Water No Pyrite's specific gravity of 4.95 to 5.10 is notably high, reflecting its dense iron sulphide chemistry. The striations commonly visible on Pyrite crystal faces (known as striation marks) result from the repeated twinning of crystal faces during growth and are particularly pronounced on cubic specimens. They are absent on Gold, providing a useful distinguishing characteristic. Crystal Habits and Why Pyrite Grows the Way It Does Pyrite's tendency to form geometrically precise crystals is one of its most scientifically interesting characteristics. It crystallises in the isometric system, meaning its internal atomic arrangement has equal symmetry in all three dimensions. This symmetry is directly expressed in the external crystal form, producing the cubes, octahedra, and pyritohedra (twelve-faced forms with pentagonal faces) that make Pyrite specimens so visually striking. The pyritohedral form is particularly notable because its pentagonal faces display a subtle but measurable deviation from perfect symmetry, related to the way iron and sulphur atoms are arranged within the crystal structure. This makes Pyrite one of relatively few common minerals whose crystal habit directly reflects a structural asymmetry invisible to the naked eye. The cubic Pyrite specimens from Navajún, Spain, are exceptional examples of isometric crystal growth, forming as isolated, perfectly formed cubes within a soft clay matrix with virtually no matrix attachment distortion. They are among the most geometrically precise natural crystals known. Pyrite and Marcasite: Understanding the Difference Pyrite has a polymorph (a mineral with the same chemical composition but a different crystal structure) called Marcasite. Both are iron sulphide (FeS₂), but Marcasite crystallises in the orthorhombic system rather than the isometric system, producing distinctly different crystal habits including flat, tabular, or cockscomb-shaped aggregates. Marcasite is less stable than Pyrite at surface conditions and is prone to pyrite disease, where exposure to moisture and oxygen causes the mineral to oxidise and break down, producing sulphuric acid and iron sulphate compounds that can physically destroy specimens over time. For collectors, the distinction matters: if a specimen begins to show white powdery deposits, a sulphurous smell, or physical crumbling, it is likely Marcasite rather than true Pyrite, and should be stored in dry, sealed conditions to slow deterioration. Pyrite Disease and Long-Term Stability True Pyrite is considerably more stable than Marcasite but is not entirely immune to oxidative deterioration under poor storage conditions. When exposed to sustained moisture and oxygen, Pyrite can slowly oxidise to produce iron sulphate minerals and sulphuric acid, manifesting as white or yellow powdery surface deposits and a faint sulphurous odour. This is why water cleansing is not recommended for Pyrite. Store Pyrite in dry conditions, away from sustained humidity, and clean with a dry soft cloth only. Museum collections routinely store Pyrite specimens in sealed, desiccated environments to maximise long-term stability. For guidance on safe cleansing methods for all your crystals, see our full guide: How to Cleanse and Recharge Your Crystals. Traditional Associations While this guide focuses on the mineralogy of Pyrite, it is widely used in spiritual and wellbeing practices. It is traditionally associated with confidence, abundance, vitality, and manifestation, and is commonly linked to the Solar Plexus Chakra and Third Eye Chakra in crystal healing systems. These associations are rooted in cultural and traditional use rather than scientific properties. For a full exploration of how to work with Pyrite spiritually, see our dedicated guide: Best Crystals for Confidence. Shop Pyrite Explore our collection of Pyrite specimens, from raw clusters to polished forms, each piece selected for quality and character. Summary Pyrite is one of Earth's most abundant and geologically versatile sulphide minerals, forming in environments ranging from deep hydrothermal veins to shallow marine sediments. Its distinctive gold colouration, precise geometric crystal habits, and historically significant fire-producing properties have made it one of the most recognised minerals in human history. For collectors, it offers outstanding crystal specimens, fascinating polymorphic chemistry, and a direct connection to some of the most important geological processes on the planet. For general buyers, it is a bold, metallic, and geologically compelling mineral whose story extends far beyond the Fool's Gold nickname it has carried for centuries. As always, our inbox and DMs are open if you would like guidance or simply wish to explore further. Contact us Love, Laura Further Reading Explore more from The Crystal & Mineral Vault and our wider guides: Permineralized Wood Mineral Guide Hematite Mineral Guide Citrine: Bask in the Golden Radiance of Citrine's Abundant Energy Best Crystals for Confidence Crystals and Sacred Geometry How to Choose the Right Crystals Based on Their Shapes

on Jan 17 2025

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Crystal grid with a variety of shapes pink and red colours

The Ultimate Guide to Crystal Shapes & What to Expect From Each One

If you are new to working with healing crystals the different crystal shapes can seem a bit confusing. While you are researching the different types and beneficial properties of each stone, you realize that some types of crystals are different from others. Is there a reason behind that? Crystals have unique vibrational energies that can promote mental wellbeing and aid in various areas of life - from anxiety and stress to restful sleep. -Does the shape of the crystal affect its power and energy? -What are the most common types of crystal shapes? These are just a few of the questions we will be answering here today. Most Common Crystal Shapes Guide Towers The long and tall crystal shapes are called towers - or points when they are smaller. This is one of the most powerful shapes that amplifies, intensifies and directs energy to where you need it to go. A crystal can be single terminated (sole point), double-terminated (point on each end) or shaped in a twin crystal tower (joined on the side). Each one has unique features that can heighten intentions and clear up energy blockages. Some of the most popular crystals for tower shapes are: Hematite, Obsidian, Quartz, Sodalite, check out our tower collection HERE. Spheres The sphere crystal shape is one of the most common. The roundness of the circle symbolizes the lack of borders or boundaries and invites us to explore all possibilities. With no end or beginning, a sphere-shaped crystal is about infinity, wholeness and renewal. Spheres are versatile, often placed in rooms as decoration to send positive energy around the space. They can also be placed in the centre of other crystals, usually on top of a stand. Some of the most popular crystals for sphere shapes are: Fluorite, Lapis Lazuli, Ocean Jasper and Carnelian. Browse our sphere-shaped crystals HERE Geodes Geodes are rocks that hide within, a treasure of minerals and crystals. The hollow part of the geode forms a pocket, where crystals are formed and coexist with the hard outer shell. The coexistence and union of the two create a beautiful and mesmerizing sight. This is a powerful crystal with a variety of healing properties. Due to their form, geodes amplify the energy of the crystal and release it gently; this is why they are ideal to place in a large room. Most geodes are formed in areas of volcanic activity. They can be purchased cut in half, to showcase the crystal, or in "slices" to use as decoration and practical objects like coasters or bookmarks. Agate and quartz geodes are often shaped with a flat base and used as decoration pieces. Geodes have a magnificent grounding energy that energizes and connects you to Mother Earth. Some of the most popular crystals for geode shapes are: Quartz (various colours) Amethyst and Celestite. We have a beautiful collection of them, check the geodes HERE. Cathedrals Cathedrals are a confusing category that can refer to a range of different crystals. For some, this is a distinctive category of Amethyst geodes. The name comes from the way they resemble the shape of a fortified castle or cathedral temple from the outside. There are also separate towers or points that look upwards. Since this is a rare shape to occur naturally, cathedrals can be hard to find and are limited in quantity. There are also Clear Cathedrals formed from Citrine or Clear Smokey Quartz. They are sometimes known as Lightbrary Cathedrals. Cathedrals are great for meditation work, reaching altered states of consciousness, higher dimensions and raising your awareness. Some of the most popular crystals for cathedral shapes are: Smokey Quartz, Citrine, Amethyst. Pyramids Pyramids look upward toward the sky, the universe and the great unknown. One of the first things to come to mind when thinking of pyramids is undoubtedly the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. The pyramid is also associated with mysticism, higher powers and a connection to the divine. A pyramid-shaped crystal aids in communication with the universe and is a powerful amplifier of intentions. At the same time, the square base of the pyramid anchors and grounds energy to the earth, providing support and stability. Great to use during meditation placed directly on chakra points or around the house for protection. Some of the most popular crystals for pyramid shapes are: Mookaite, Fluorite, Amethyst, Labradorite, Obsidian, check out our Pyramids and Orgone collection HERE. Eggs The egg shape has long been considered a symbol of fertility, femininity and rebirth. Eggs provide healing, nourishment and can support during periods of childbirth or fertility problems. They are also great at balancing conflicting energies and radiating positivity. Egg-shaped crystals can be used for decoration but are also great during meditation, especially when working on the Sacral Chakra. As the embodiment of new beginnings, eggs are great for setting intentions and working towards your goals and purposes. Some of the most popular crystals for egg shapes are: Rose Quartz, Pyrite, Ruby in Matrix, Labradorite. Our Crystal eggs are available here. Wands Wands are long and slender crystals with a single termination point. Similar to crystal towers and points, wands are mostly used by energy practitioners and Reiki healers to direct energy to certain chakras, unblock and realign. Wands with rounded edges are also great to use for your beauty routine. Some of the most popular crystals for wand shapes are: Amethyst, Black Obsidian, Selenite. We have some gorgeous wands here. Clusters A cluster is a group of crystals that are naturally positioned right next to and on top of each other, often in a circular or semi-circular fashion and set on a flat base. Depending on their size, clusters can radiate immense energy and absorb negative vibrations from a whole room or house. While powerful, they have a warm and gentle spirit and can even be used to cleanse or recharge other crystals. Clusters are great to place in the centre of a crystal grid (an arrangement of specific crystals in a formation that can cleanse, set intentions or amplify healing energy). Some of the most popular crystals for cluster shapes are: Angel Aura, Cobalt Aura, Amethyst, Celestite, Clear Quartz. We have many cluster crystals available here! Palm stones Palm stones, also known as meditation stones are flat, rounded and polished so they can sit comfortably in the centre of your palm. As the name implies, they are great to use during meditation and grounding work, to reduce stress and anxiety and settle restless minds. Other shapes like small eggs and hearts can also be used for this purpose. Some of the most popular crystals for palm shapes are: Obsidian, Amethyst, Dalmatian Jasper, Clear Quartz, Tiger's Eye, Bloodstone. We have beautiful palm stones for you right here. Druzy A druzy shape is characterized by the sprinkle of lots of small crystals on the surface of another crystalline surface. They come in a variety of colours and have an intense radiance, making them extremely popular for jewellery making. While often quartz-based, they can also be found with other minerals and crystals such as garnets and calcites. The healing and nourishing properties of a druzy crystal are linked to relaxation, harmony and unleashing creativity. This crystal shape is also linked to prosperity and attracting a wealth mindset as well as letting go of negative patterns. You can use a crystal druzy to recharge other crystals. Some of the most popular crystals for druzy shapes are: Agates, Amethyst, Quartz. We have a large variety of druzy crystals right here for you! Cubes The cube is a robust and grounding shape for a crystal. It is best used for Root Chakra crystals that bring us back to earth and revitalize our connection with Mother Gaia. One of the crystals naturally found in a cube-like shape is Pyrite. This crystal shape is also ideal for gridding a room - four crystals on each corner for protection. Try Black Tourmaline to clear the space from EMFs and electromagnetic radiation. Some of the most popular crystals for cube shapes are: Shungite, Pyrite, Obsidian. Other Shapes For Crystals Tumblestones When we talk about tumblestones we are referring to cut and polished rocks that are usually small to medium-sized. They are a practical choice as you can carry them in your pocket to channel their energy and benefit from their healing properties directly. They don't have a specific size or shape but their edges are smoothed and shined through the process of tumbling. Tumblestones are also great for jewellery making. You may also easily transform your crystals into tumblestones by purchasing a rock tumbler to use at home. Some of the most popular crystals for tumblestones crystals are: Amethyst, Blue Lace Agate, Moonstone and Carnelian. We have a very large variety of tumblestones beauties, have a look here! Heart Heart-shaped crystals are not naturally occurring but cut and shaped. They are great to use when working on the Heart Chakra to encourage self-love and compassion and instill a sense of gratitude and appreciation into your life. They spread a warm and nurturing energy with loving vibrations that radiate positivity and heal emotional wounds that are holding you back. Hearts can also support you in new relationships. They make great gifts for loved ones and are popular for jewellery, especially pendants and rings. Some of the most popular crystals for heart shapes are: Flower Agate, Fluorite, Amethyst, Labradorite, Rhodonite. Check out our heart stones collection HERE. Animal Shapes There is a wide range of hand-carved animal-shaped crystals on the market. Depending on the combination of crystal and animal shape these can have specific healing properties and associations to chakras. An owl-shaped crystal is linked to wisdom and deep insight, butterflies are a symbol of transformation and offer support during new beginnings, while a dragon signifies physical strength, power and male energy. Moons & Stars The moon and star-shaped crystals have strong associations to moon energy. While most often used in jewellery these are great stones to help us connect to other dimensions and celestial energies and benefit from their divine wisdom. They can also be placed near the bed or worn while sleeping to protect from bad dreams and encourage relaxation. **These are different from "asterism" formations on crystals that trace a star outline with light or darker patterns on top of the crystal. Some of the most popular crystals for moon & star shapes are: Opalite, Selenite, White & Rose Quartz, Moonstone, Labradorite Things to remember about crystal shapes Crystals come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most common crystal shapes are cubes, pyramids, spheres, tumbled and clusters. Similar to how different crystals can feel different, their shape can change your experience with them. Some are more suited for certain chakras. You can read more about the 7 energy centres on our body - called chakras - here! As always feel free to reach out gif you have any questions! Love & Light, Laura Related Blog Posts Want to learn more about how crystals can help you heal emotional or physical imbalances? Check out our other Guides: Best Crystals for Self Love How Does the Moon Affect Mother Earth and Crystals How to Incorporate Crystals in Your Daily Life Moldavite: A Life Changing stone you need to buy Best Crystals for Confidence Best Crystals EMF Protection The Seven Chakra Guides Best Crystals for Stress and Anxiety Zodiacs and Crystals

on May 24 2021

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