a yellow mineral, found in igneous and metamorphic rocks and in veins. It is a source of sulphur and is used in the manufacture of sulphuric acid. Composition: iron sulphide. Formula: FeS2. Crystal structure: cubic
Also called: iron pyrites, pyrites. Nontechnical name: fool's gold
Derived forms
pyritic (paɪˈrɪtɪk) or pyritous (pyˈritous)
adjective
Word origin
C16: from Latin pyrites flint, from Greek puritēs (lithos) fire (stone), that is, capable of withstanding or striking fire, from pur fire