Pyrite crystals are brassy sulfur stones with the nickname Fool’s Gold. They are present all over the world, with mines full of the golden crystals to this day.
Pyrite is a spiritual stone with both physical and emotional benefits. These include protection, increased masculine energy, and a greater sense of self-identity.
Crystals of pyrite also possess unique properties that include wealth and abundance, one of the greatest benefits in all aspects. No matter what stage of life you are in, pyrite crystals draw in positive energy you may use to improve your day.
What is Pyrite?
Pyrite crystals are made of iron disulfide and are the most common type of sulfide. They contain sulfur and iron, which results in a natural fire-starting stone.
Pyrite Meaning
Pyrite means abundance, confidence, and determination. The spiritual significance is to enhance the belief you have in yourself and your success.
The word pyrite comes from the Greek word pyr, which means “fire.” It receives the name pyrite due to its ability to create fire.
Varieties of Pyrite
Pyrite does not have many varieties and is instead sorted into the shape and formation of the crystals. Like most crystals, pyrite may be found in obelisks and clusters. But a less common, but still relevant form of pyrite is the pyrite slab and the pyrite cube.
Geological Origin of Pyrite
Pyrite is found all around the world, but its geological origin is thought to be Namibia. In the African country, multiple pyrite mines exist, most containing rare minerals like gold, silver, and copper.
How is Pyrite Formed?
Pyrite forms from bacteria that drain the oxygen out of sulfate. The process happens in water as the sulfur reacts to iron and creates the metallic crystal we know as pyrite.
Properties of Pyrite
| Formula | FeS2 |
| Classification | Sulfide |
| Mohs Hardness | 6-6.5 |
| Refractive Index | n = 2.42 |
| System | Isometric |
| Luster | Metallic |
| 2V Angle | None |
| Birefringence | None |
| Dispersion | None |
Mineral Composition of Pyrite
Pyrite is almost an even split of iron and sulfur. Though not a rare mineral, pyrite is known to contain traces of rare minerals such as cobalt, silver, and true gold.
It also can form in quartz and other crystals. So it’s not uncommon to find pyrite paired with others in one way or another.
Pyrite forms in many ways, such as cubic form, also called isometric. The rare cubic crystals are a phenomenon that few other minerals take the form of.
Most pyrite forms in masses, with each individual mode having its own structure. Part of the mass may contain cubic pyrite, while others contain round or mixed structures.
Pyrite Historical Significance
Pyrite is also known as Fool’s Gold, due to its similar appearance to real gold. It was first documented by Dioscorades, a physician and pharmacologist, in 50 A.D. Since then, it has had significant historical purposes.
Firearms
Pyrite is still sometimes used in firearms, but in the 1500s, it was much more common to use in flintlocks. During this time, it was also used in wheel-lock cannons, with the ability to ignite gunpowder efficiently for the era.
World War II
During World War II, pyrite was crucial to the production of sulfur and sulfuric acid. The sulfur from pyrite was sprinkled on the wounds of soldiers to help ward off infection. Such sulfur was even used in the drug Prontosil by Bayer.
Healing Stone
One of the first recordings of pyrite being used in a less practical way was by Native American people. They used pyrite as a healing stone to protect and conserve masculine energy.
Healing Properties of Pyrite
- Dreams to reality – manifest your desires with pyrite
- Ignite passion – inspires and helps one focus on their passion in life
- Energize – a high-energy stone that heals fatigue
- Find abundance – the crystal draws in wealth and prosperity
- Confidence enhancing – one of the greatest properties that helps improve self-worth
Benefits of Pyrite in Your Life
Physical
Pyrite’s primary physical benefit is to increase energy. The crystals can repair damage that, in turn, enhances the energy in your body, reducing tiredness.
Emotional
Emotional benefits of pyrite crystals include determination and a boost in confidence. They help users find emotional stability by increasing focus on what matters and letting the little things go.
Spiritual
Pyrite crystals draw in abundance and wealth. Though this does account for monetary wealth, the primary type of abundance that magnetizes pyrite is spiritual wealth.
Ways to Use Pyrite
Meditation
Focusing on pyrite improves overall determination and grit. During meditation, focus on your desires to calibrate the shiny gem to your specifications. Redo the process as often as you change your primary desire or goal.
Manifestation
Pyrite is a good crystal to manifest your dreams. Use it to turn your dreams into reality by holding the stone for an extended period, even if it’s on a necklace or in your pocket. Think about what you want in the future and use the energy from pyrite to bring that into being.
Fire
Pyrite may be used as a flintstone to create sparks. It does not require another surface that can create sparks as it is the primary source of fire, while the other surface needs only to be rough.
Blocking EMFs
For those plagued by harmful spirits, pyrite may help by blocking EMFs. Negative energy follows those who allow it but also those who are doing too much good. Wearing pyrite is a good way to ward off these spirits and continue to make the most of your life.
Fertilizer
Sulfuric acid from pyrite is still a common ingredient in modern-day agricultural fertilizer. It helps oil-based and protein-based plants create chlorophyll and maintain a healthy pH balance in the soil.
Where to Find Pyrite
- Italy – forms as cubic pyrite in Tuscany
- USA – a diverse collection of pyrite is available across the United States
- Namibia – the home of pyrite with several mines still in operation
- Peru – typically forms in clusters in Huanaco
- Spain – plentiful in Navajún with some of the rarest and most unique formations
- Kazakhstan – forms in geometric clusters in the Kostanay District
How to Care For Pyrite
How to Clean Pyrite
To clean pyrite, wash with warm, soapy water. Do not use hot or cold water, and air dry the stone rather than wash it with a rough cloth.
How to Charge Pyrite
To charge pyrite, place it under the moonlight, in smoke, or in a sound bowl. As long as you do not scratch the pyrite crystals, they are easy to charge and keep healthy.
Can Pyrite Be in The Sun?
Yes, pyrite can be in the sun. Unlike crystals that fade in the sunlight, pyrite uses the energy of the sun to become stronger. It does get very hot if left in the sun, so ensure that you handle it with care after a pyrite sunbathe.
Can Pyrite Go in Water?
No, pyrite should not go in water. Though it is a healthy crystal, pyrite tends to break down if left in water. So only use water in small amounts and always let pyrite dry before storing.
Is Pyrite Expensive?
No, pyrite is inexpensive. There is a highlight to pyrite being “fool’s gold.” Pyrite crystals are inexpensive unless they contain traces of rare minerals.
Where to Put Pyrite in Your Home
Pyrite works best in entryways, the office, or an active living space. In entryways, it protects the home from uninvited guests. In other areas, it helps liven the room up and invite in positive energy.
Are Pyrite Good for Sleep?
No, pyrite is not good for sleep. It adds too much energy to a room, making you more restless. Though it is not bad to put it in the bedroom, keep it out of the room long before bed to ensure the energy dissipates before you lay down to sleep.
Pyrite in Art and Culture
- In the Victorian age, pyrite crystals were common for rosettes, rings, and other decorations.
- Artist Dmitriy Emelyanenko makes pyrite sculptures that resemble people, animals, and more.
- A unique cubic pyrite formate exists in Navajún, La Rioja, Spain.
What Chakra Does Pyrite Help?
Pyrite helps the solar plexus chakra. It grants healthy power and increases feelings of self-worth. Using pyrite to improve flow to the solar plexus chakra enhances your ability to grow and gives you a better sense of self.
What Other Crystals Work Well with Pyrite?
Other crystals that work well with pyrite are citrine, tourmaline, and amethyst. Citrine helps draw in abundance. Crystals like amethyst work to bring in more positive energy. Dark stones like tourmaline ground if paired with pyrite.