The promise of finding gold has too often been thwarted by glittering, multifaceted cuboid crystals known as pyrite. There are stark contrasts between the two minerals when closely examined, but from a distance on a long hot day, it's understandable to see why pyrite could be mistaken for gold. In the right light, pyrite glimmers like gold and easily stands out in piles of excavated dirt. It has fooled many treasure hunters around the world into thinking they finally uncovered something of value for tedious hard work. For this, the reflective mineral acquired the name, Fool's Gold, adding yet another barrier between a man's desire of a lavish lifestyle.
Pyrite is commonly found in areas associated to gold such as quartz deposits and is sometimes known to include very small amounts of gold through a process of substitution. However, the difference in minerals is significant by valuation. Pyrite is formed as a cuboid crystal structure which is distinctly evident upon close inspection. It is also a harder material and this is a reason why people may bite down on the minerals, to assess how malleable the substance is. Gold is softer, easier to work, and a bite will leave an impression when compared to pyrite.
Despite the fact it is desired less than gold, and is not quite as versatile for modern applications, pyrite is still a fascinating mineral. The crystal formation demonstrates nature's ability of creating complex ordered structures under the right conditions. Though it is common to find cuboid shapes in the mineral, pyrite can also be formed with dodecahedron and quasicrystal shapes. Looking closely at pyrite is a glimpse into a window of nature's mathematical capabilities, even if found when expecting to find gold.
