Pyrite is an iron sulfide mineral with a hardness of 6-6.5. It’s crystal patterns are cubic, pyritohedral, or octahedral. The name pyrite is derived from the Greek word for fire. Pyrite’s shiny yellow metallic appearance has earned it the nickname “fool’s gold,” and the ancient Incas used Pyrite as mirrors. It is found all over the world, but important deposits are in Italy, Spain, and Peru.
Pyrite is said to enhance willpower, helping one to overcome bad habits.