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Marcasite
Marcasite - Mineral Properties and Uses |
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What is Marcasite? |
Marcasite is an iron sulfide mineral. It has the same chemical composition as pyrite, however these two minerals are in different crystal systems (marcasite is orthorhombic and pyrite is isometric). |
Uses |
Very few commercial uses. Has been used as a source of sulfur and as an ornamental stone (many of the ornamental stones sold under the name of "marcasite" are actually pyrite). |
Color |
pale bronze yellow |
Streak |
grayish black |
Luster |
metallic |
Diaphaneity |
opaque |
Cleavage |
poor |
Hardness |
6.0 - 7.5 |
Specific Gravity |
4.9 |
Distinguishing
Characteristics |
color |
Crystal System |
orthorhombic |
Chemical Classification |
sulfide |
Chemical Composition |
iron sulfide, FeS2 |
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