Pyrite or iron pyrite is the mineral that's become notoriously known as fool's gold because of its metallic luster and brass-yellow hue. Its brass-yellow color has also earned it nicknames such as brass, Brazzle, and Brazil.
The Physical Properties of Pyrite
Pyrite is an iron sulfide and is considered the most common of all the sulfide minerals. It has a brittle tenacity, and its color is pale brass-yellow reflective which tarnishes darker and iridescent. Some have been found to have greenish-black to brownish-black streaks. On the Mohs scale of hardness, Pyrite scores 6-6.5.
The History of Pyrite
The name Pyrite was derived from the Greek (pyrit?s), “of fire” or “in fire,” in turn from (pyr), “fire.” In ancient Rome, this name was applied to several types of stone that created sparks whenever it struck by steel.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Pyrite enjoyed temporary popularity as it a main source of ignition in early firearms, particularly the wheel lock. The gun cock would hold a lump of Pyrite against a circular file to strike the sparks that guns need to fire. Pyrite is extremely common in the Earth’s crust can be found in almost all terrestrial environments including sedimentary, metamorphic, magmatic and hydrothermal deposits.
The Lore of Pyrite
The Native American highly prized Pyrite as a healing stone of magic. They would polish it into mirrors for gazing and divination. They believed they could look into one’s soul when peering into a gleaming piece of Pyrite. Native American shamans revered Pyrite as “a stone of power.” Their medicine men used them in healing rituals, earning them the label, “Healer’s Stone.”
On the other side of the world, the ancient Chinese believed Pyrite could guard against crocodile attacks.
The Metaphysical Properties of Pyrite
To give you confidence and harness the powerful and protective elements of Pyrite, keep it close to you at all times. The warrior stone can give you a boost of emotional strength and energy.
This powerful stone also encourages an attitude of gratitude, gifts you possess. It reminds you to be grateful for the power and wisdom granted by the Universe. And because you are humbled by this gift, the Universe grants you with an abundance of self-awareness, insight, and learning.
As a healing stone, Pyrite increases oxygen supply to the blood, strengthening the respiratory and circulatory systems. It may also be used in treating blood disorders. It is excellent for combating male impotence and infertility as it stimulates proper endocrine function. It is said to be beneficial to those who have weak lungs, helping to alleviate asthma and bronchitis. It assists in treatments of the bones, both in structure and cell formation.
Pyrite is considered as a stone of protection for caregivers and medical workers. This mineral shields the body from environmental pollutants, preventing and repairing DNA damage. Wearers of Pyrite as said to ward off contagious diseases, making it useful in fighting colds, flu and other viruses, skin diseases, and fungal infections, and other highly infectious diseases. It has also been used to lessen fever and reduce inflammation.
