The financial worth of iron pyrite, generally referred to as “idiot’s gold,” is mostly low, regardless of its metallic luster and resemblance to gold. Elements influencing its value embrace the scale, high quality, and type of the specimen. Whereas small, unrefined items may be price only some {dollars}, bigger, well-formed crystals can typically command larger costs, notably amongst collectors or for ornamental functions. One may encounter pyrite in numerous kinds, 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 invaluable as a valuable metallic, pyrite has served numerous 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.
