I give up..... Pyrite or Marcasite ? Pyrite and Marcasite have the same chemical compositions, making them polymorphs of each other. It isnt easy to tell the difference between these two iron sulfides. Their primary differences are their crystalline structure and their variation in coloring. Pyrite has a cubic structure with a yellowish gold metallic luster which resembles gold (hence the name fool’s gold). Marcasite has an unstable orthorhombic structure that is prone to crumbling and breaking. Its coloring can have a greenish tint or a multi colored tarnish (due to oxidation). Marcasite is sometimes referred to as “white iron” pyrite.” Sometimes, the moisture in the air can cause marcasite to produce sulfuric acid. For that reason, marcasite is never used in jewelry. So, if you ever see jewelry listed as marcasite, know that it is more than likely pyrite. ;) The first picture is pyrite. 2nd photo is marcasite
Posted on: Sat, 12 Jul 2014 13:31:00 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015