Comparison · Sulfide Minerals vs Minerals
Marcasite vs Pyrite
Marcasite and Pyrite are easy to confuse. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Marcasite and Pyrite
- Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Streak color differs: Marcasite leaves a dark greenish gray to brownish black streak on unglazed porcelain, Pyrite leaves greenish-black.
- Both look metallic, so compare color, tarnish and weight rather than shine.
- They overlap in yellow, but Marcasite also comes in white and brown.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Marcasite is orthorhombic, Pyrite is cubic.
Marcasite vs Pyrite properties
| Property | Marcasite | Pyrite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Sulfide Minerals | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 6 | 6.5 |
| Luster | metallic | metallic |
| Streak | Dark greenish gray to brownish black | Greenish-black |
| Transparency | opaque | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 4.9 | 5 |
| Crystal system | orthorhombic | cubic |
| Common colors | Pale brass yellow, Tin white, Bronze | Brass Yellow, Pale Gold |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$200+ | $2–$100+ |
Which is more valuable?
Marcasite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $35 against $15 for Pyrite, and premium Marcasite can reach $200 or more.
About Marcasite
Marcasite is an iron sulfide mineral with the same composition as pyrite but a different crystal structure. It appears as pale brass-yellow crystals, radiating groups, and botryoidal masses, and is prone to crumbling as it oxidizes over time.
About Pyrite
Pyrite, commonly known as 'fool's gold,' is an iron sulfide with a metallic luster and pale brass-yellow color. Despite its name, it has significant industrial uses.
Marcasite vs Pyrite FAQ
Is Marcasite the same as Pyrite?
No. Marcasite is a sulfide mineral while Pyrite is a mineral. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Marcasite from Pyrite?
Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Streak color differs: Marcasite leaves a dark greenish gray to brownish black streak on unglazed porcelain, Pyrite leaves greenish-black. Both look metallic, so compare color, tarnish and weight rather than shine.
Which is harder, Marcasite or Pyrite?
Pyrite is harder: Mohs 6.5 against Mohs 6 for Marcasite.
Which is more valuable, Marcasite or Pyrite?
Marcasite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $35 against $15 for Pyrite, and premium Marcasite can reach $200 or more.
