The Uses of Marcasite

Marcasite is an interesting mineral, due to the fact that its name is commonly used for a mineral that is similar in composition, but not the same. It should be noted that the name Marcasite is used quite frequently for the mineral Pyrite. Pyrite and Marcasite share the same exact chemical make up; however they both differ in their interior structure. Pyrite is known as the fire mineral and is very shiny. It can come in the beautiful color of gold and is in many other semi precious and precious stones such as Lapis Lazuli.

Marcasite is different than Pyrite; it is a little lighter in color and tends to look like a yellowish brass. It also can come in hues of light green. It should be noted that Marcasite is not used for jewelry per se, but can and are collected by gemstone and mineralogists. There are a few industrial uses such as chalks and a product in the creation of mirrors, but for the most part, Marcasite is not hard enough and it can in certain cases deteriorate. Marcasite is usually much more brittle than pyrite and will crumble very easily.

Marcasite is made from FES2, which is iron sulfide. Some Marcasite stones can decay into dust within a few years. While scientists don’t know for sure why this happens, many theories that are abound are that it is eaten by bacteria, that it comes into contact with humidity, etc. When the stone decays, it gives off an unpleasant sulfur odor, that of rotten eggs.

Marcasite - The History and Origins

Marcasite is an interesting mineral that has been confused with other types of minerals for generations. Marcasite, which is sometimes called white pyrite or white iron pyrite is created from iron sulfide. Its chemical make up is FES2. Marcasite is closely associated with Pyrite, but more likely than not usually those that think they are buying Marcasite are actually buying pyrite.

This problem arises form the unique chemical make up of Marcasite. Marcasite includes the exact same chemicals as Pyrite, except for the fact that they are arranged differently. While they might somewhat similiar, their inherent qualities are different. Marcasite for instance, will be extremely brittle and will crumble quite easily. It is also sometimes recognized by being lighter than pyrite.

Marcasite is usually yellowish or has a brassy look to it. It can sometimes include the color of green. There is an interesting effect that can occur in Marcasite, it is called the Cox’s comb. It is a crystal twinned habit. This occurs when the crystals appear to form the head of a rooster; it is very distinctive and unique only to Marcasite.

While Marcasite has been known for thousands of years to the Greeks, Mayans and Chinese, most mythology is associated with its Pyrite type properties. For instance, Marcasite is seen as having a calming effect, as well as a healing effect. In fact, many cultures viewed Marcasite and its cousin Pyrite as a healing stone or to attract wealth or inspire creativity.