Iron Pyrite Collection

RioTinto tidal area and saltmarshes, with healthy vegetation and red silt containing pyrite (an iron mineral common in sediments). The silt is deposited by constant tidal flooding

Mirror with Jaguar or Coyote Mosaic, A. D. 500 / 600. Creator: Unknown
Mirror with Jaguar or Coyote Mosaic, A.D. 500/600

Mask, 100 B. C. / A. D. 500. Creator: Unknown
Mask, 100 B.C./A.D. 500

Piece of pyrite from the workshop of C. Edgar Patience, n. d. Creator: Unknown
Charles Edgar Patience (1906-1972), was an African American anthracite coal sculptor who raised the form to high art, exhibiting works at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York

Sectioned fossil ammonite where the shell material has been replaced by pyrites, and the empty cavities of the shell have filled during fossilisation with crystalised yellow/green calcite preserving

Pyrite, feS2

Aztec Turquoise and Lignite mosaic mask of Tezcatlipoca, 15th - 16th century
Aztec mask believed to represent Tezcatlipoca, modelled on a skull with the back cut away and lined with leather, 15th to 16th century. The jaw is hinged. From the British Museum

Iron Pyrites

Pyrite (FeS2) (Iron sulfide) - Peru - Popularly known as "fool's gold" - Formerly used in the production
CAN-4438 Pyrite (FeS2) (Iron sulfide) Peru iron sulfide Popularly known as "fool's gold" - Formerly used in the production of sulfuric acid John Cancalosi contact details

Minerals, Iron Pyrite or Fools Gold crystals, cubic crystals on host rock

Iron pyrite crystals, SEM
Iron pyrite crystals, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Iron pyrite (iron disulphide, FeS2), commonly known as fools gold, is the most abundant sulphide mineral and often occurs as cubes

Iron pyrite crystal, SEM
Iron pyrite crystal, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Iron pyrite (iron disulphide, FeS2), commonly known as fools gold, is the most abundant sulphide mineral and often occurs as cubes

Pyrite (FeS2) (Iron sulfide) - Popularly known as "fool's gold" - Formerly used in the production of
CAN-4441 Pyrite (FeS2) (Iron sulfide) Yishan - Guangxi- China iron sulfide Popularly known as "fool's gold" - Formerly used in the production of sulfuric acid John Cancalosi contact

Pyrite (FeS2) (Iron sulfide) / "Fool's Gold" - Navajun - La Rioja - Spain
CAN-4387 Pyrite (FeS2) (Iron sulfide) / "Fool's Gold" Navajun - La Rioja - Spain John Cancalosi contact details: prints@ardea.com tel: +44 (0) 20 8318 1401

Iron pyrite crystals
Iron pyrite, or fools gold, crystals

Sample of pyrite
Pyrite. Macrophotograph of a sample of pyrite (iron sulphide). This is the most abundant sulphide in the Earths lithosphere. It forms large cubic crystals, with a golden yellow colour

Iron pyrite crystal. Pyrite or iron disulphide (FeS2) is the most abundant sulphide mineral, more commonly known as fools gold

Nugget of Fools Gold, iron pyrites
Fools gold. Lump of fools gold, also known as pyrite, iron pyrites or iron sulphide. Fools gold is used as a source of sulphur and in the manufacture of sulphuric acid

Iron pyrite
Nugget of iron pyrite

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Iron pyrite, also known as "fool's gold, " is a fascinating mineral that has left its mark in various forms throughout history. In the Rio Tinto tidal area and saltmarshes, where healthy vegetation thrives, this shimmering mineral can be found. It serves as a reminder of the rich geological heritage of this region. One remarkable artifact showcasing iron pyrite's allure is the mirror adorned with a mosaic featuring a Jaguar or Coyote design. Created by an unknown artist between A. D. 500 and 600, it reflects both the craftsmanship and appreciation for this captivating mineral. Another enigmatic creation from ancient times is an intricate mask dating back to 100 B. C. To A. D. 500. Its creator remains unknown, but their skill in incorporating iron pyrite into the design showcases its significance during that era. A piece of pyrite originating from C. Edgar Patience's workshop adds another layer to our understanding of this mineral's historical use and craftsmanship techniques employed by artisans whose names have been lost over time. The transformative power can be witnessed in a sectioned fossil ammonite where the original shell material has been replaced by gleaming pyrites—a testament to nature's ability to preserve beauty through unique processes. Moving forward in history, we encounter an Aztec Turquoise and Lignite mosaic mask depicting Tezcatlipoca from the 15th -16th century—an exquisite example of how different cultures incorporated iron pyrite into their artwork for symbolic purposes. Beyond its artistic value lies practicality; Peru once utilized iron sulfide (FeS2) extensively for sulfuric acid production due to its abundance and chemical properties—earning it the moniker "fool's gold" due to misleading appearances resembling real gold. In terms of natural formations, cubic crystals on host rock exemplify Iron Pyrite or Fool’s Gold crystals' mesmerizing structure—a sight that captivates both geologists and enthusiasts alike.