Gold Vs. Pyrite

Gold is a very popular mineral composed of gold.^[1] Pyrite is also a very popular gemstone (marcasite) and its chemical composition is iron sulfide.^[2]

Quick Facts on Differences of Gold and Pyrite

For a quick recap of the differences gold and pyrite:

• For chemical formulas, gold is Au while pyrite is FeS2.
• Gold streaks golden, golden yellow or yellow while pyrite streaks black, black green or green.
• Gold's rarity is more rare than pyrite.
• Gold's specific gravity is higher than pyrite - gold ranges from 15.5 to 19.3 and pyrite ranges from 4.9 to 5.2.

Quick Facts on Similarities of Gold and Pyrite

The similarities of gold and pyrite include:

• Gold and pyrite both are opaque.
• In terms of luster, gold and pyrite both are metallic.
• Gold and pyrite both are yellow.

Summary of Gold

Gold is a chemical element with the symbol Au (from Latin: aurum) and atomic number 79, making it one of the higher atomic number elements that occur naturally. It is a bright, slightly reddish yellow, dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal. Gold is a precious metal that has been used for currency, jewelry, and decoration for thousands of years. It is also used in electronics, medicine, and as a conductor in space vehicles and satellites.

Summary of Pyrite

Pyrite, also known as iron pyrite or fool's gold, is a mineral with a metallic luster and a brass-yellow color. It is composed of iron disulfide (FeS2) and is commonly found in sedimentary rocks, metamorphic rocks, and hydrothermal veins. Pyrite is often mistaken for gold due to its color and metallic appearance, but it is much less valuable than gold.

Table Comparison of Gold vs Pyrite