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
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