Pyrite (Fools Gold)

View our range of beautifully handcrafted pyrite (fools gold) gemstone jewellery.

This stone caused a lot of disappointment in the mid-1800s, historically mistaken for gold. Though very brittle, the gemstone is harder than gold and leaves a greenish-black streak, while gold leaves a golden-yellow one. Pyrite is also magnetic. It is named for the Greek word pyr, or "fire," as it produces sparks when struck with steel. It is so common in the Earth's crust that it is found in almost every possible environment.Pyrite has been used in jewelry and ornamentation for thousands of years. The Incas used large slabs of polished pyrite as magnificent mirrors.