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Mineralogists often use the physical properties of minerals to identify them. The most reliable test in order to identify a mineral is the test for hardness.

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Q: What test is most reliable for identifying pyrite and gold?
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Explain why color is not a good test dor distinguishing between pyrite and gold what test is most reliable dor identifying these two minerals?

Because they look alike


What is a common name for pyrite?

One of the most commonly known forms of iron sulfide is iron pyrite. Another common name for this compound is fool's gold.


What mineral property can be used to distinguish between pyrite and chalco pyrite?

Pyrite also known as "fool's gold" is a mineral that has both a different chemical, morphological and physical characteristics than gold. Gold is denser (i.e. the same size of gold is much heavier than the that of pyrite). Gold's average density is 17.64 g/cm3 while Pyrite's density is on average 5.01 g/cm3. The chemical formulas are different. Gold's chemical formula is "Au" while Pyrite's is and iron sulfate mineral with a formula of "FeS2". The color is also different, gold appears the color of gold while pyrite is more bronze in color. The crystallographic form of the minerals also vary. Gold is a very soft mineral while Pyrite is much harder (gold has a hardness of 2.5 while Pyrite is 6.5). To distinguish between a sample of each, you could scratch the surface of gold using your fingernail which you would not be able to do with pyrite. You can try to scratch it because pyrite or fools gold much harder then gold so if it doesn't scratch that much it is most likely pyrite or fools gold. You can tell them apart by looking at their reflection and streak. Also, gold is much more dense than pyrite, so the same volume would 'weigh' about 3.5 times more. Gold has a hardness of about 2.5, while pyrite is about 6 (Gold is softer and more malable). Streak is used to distinguish between Gold and Pyrite.


What is the difference between iron and iron pyrite?

Iron is composed only of the element Fe (iron). Iron pyrite (most correctly referred to as pyrite) is a mineral composed of Fe and S (sulfur).


Can fools gold be found in granite?

Yes, fools gold (pyrite) can be found in granite. Pyrite is commonly found in various types of rocks, including granite, where it forms as small metallic crystals. However, the presence of pyrite in granite is not always guaranteed and is dependent on the specific geological conditions during the formation of the granite.


Is Iron pyrites magnetic?

No. ----------- Well, maybe and maybe not. Not ALL pyrite is magnetic, but some is. That said, Iron Pyrite, or fool's gold, can be tested for by a malleability test. Using a pin, or a pocket knife, try to cut or 'stab' the sample in question. If it bends to the point or blade, it is most-likely gold. If it shatters or breaks, it is most-likely either Iron Pyrite or Mica. In 20-years of hobby-prospecting, the pocket-knife test is the best. That, and visually inspecting in direct sunlight where possible. Gold will have luster in and out of direct sunlight. Iron Pyrite will not display luster out of direct sunlight. Final test for Iron Pyrite is Specific Gravity. Gold is 19.3, while Iron Pyrite is 5 (+/-0.1). With a pan, you can easily differentiate Iron Pyrite from Gold by stratification in a soil sample.


What elements does pyrite contain?

pyrite, or " fools' gold " is a compound made up of two elements.


Is pyrite rare?

Pyrite is not considered rare, as it is one of the most abundant sulfide minerals found in nature. It is commonly found in sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous rocks around the world. Despite its abundance, pyrite is valued for its resemblance to gold and its industrial uses in sulfur production.


Is pyrite gold valuable?

Most pyrite is not valuable (I have heard estimates of 50 cents (USD) per gramme). Some pyrites contain traces of gold that increase its value, but it is mainly used for industrial extraction of sulphur. Large, perfectly cubic crystals of pyrite are valued by museums as exhibits.


What are the chemical reactions with real gold and fool's gold?

Real gold (Au) does not react with most chemicals due to its inert nature. Fool's gold (iron pyrite, FeS2) can react with oxygen and water to form iron oxide and sulfuric acid. In acidic environments, fool's gold can react with hydrochloric acid to release sulfur dioxide gas.


Where can you find pyrite.?

Leadville, Colorado is one of the most common places that pyrite can be found.


Did the English settlers find sliver and gold in Jamestown Virginia?

john smith gold was fond in Trinidad and Tobago