About Marcasite
An iron disulfide, a polymorph of pyrite, typically pale bronze-yellow with a metallic luster, often forming radiating or spear-shaped crystals. It's associated with vitality and creativity but is unstable and can decompose.
Primary Hues
Pale Bronze-Yellow, Tin-White, Tarnishes yellowish or brownish, often forms radiating or spear-shaped crystals
Metaphysical Properties
A stone of vitality and spiritual development. Believed to inspire creativity, aid in meditation, and protect against negativity. (Note: Can decay and produce sulfuric acid in humid conditions).
Associated Tarot Cards
The Magician
Type: Major Arcana
Rationale: Represents willpower- vitality- and manifesting ideas- aligning with this fiery iron sulfide.
The Tower
Type: Major Arcana
Rationale: Represents breaking through illusion and sudden insight- which Marcasite can spark.
Associated Deities
Ares/Mars
Pantheon: Greek/Roman
Domain: War- Courage- Action
Rationale: Its fiery- energetic nature connects to warrior deities.
Hephaestus/Vulcan
Pantheon: Greek/Roman
Domain: Craftsmanship- Fire- Forge
Rationale: Their association with metal and fire aligns with Marcasite.
Metaphysical Uses
Willpower Meditation
Spiritual Growth Reflection
Negativity Shielding Altar
Please read our Metaphysical Disclaimer
Geological & Scientific Details
Marcasite is classified as a sulfide mineral mineral which typically crystallizes in the orthorhombic system. Its chemical formula is FeS2. Common crystal habits include crystals typically tabular on {010}, curved faces common; stalactitic, reniform, massive; cockscomb and spearhead shapes due to twinning on {101}..
Key Geological Properties:
- Mineral Category: Sulfide mineral
- Chemical Formula: FeS2
- IMA Symbol: Mrc[1]
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Formula Mass (g/mol): 119.98 g/mol
- Predominant Geological Color: Tin-white on fresh surface, pale bronze-yellow, darkening on exposure, iridescent tarnish
- Crystal Habit: Crystals typically tabular on {010}, curved faces common; stalactitic, reniform, massive; cockscomb and spearhead shapes due to twinning on {101}.
- Twinning: Common and repeated on {101}; less common on {011}.
- Cleavage: Cleavage: {101}, rather distinct; {110} in traces
- Luster: Metallic
- Streak: Dark-grey to black.
- Diaphaneity: Opaque
Associated Minerals
- Pyrite (dimorph)
- Galena
- Sphalerite
- Chalcopyrite
- Calcite
- Dolomite (common in sedimentary deposits like chalk and limestone, and low-temperature hydrothermal veins)