Small Pyrite Specimen Appraisal

Small Pyrite Specimen (Fool's Gold)

This item is a very small, raw specimen of pyrite, commonly known as 'Fool's Gold,' perched atop a denim fabric surface for scale. Physically, the specimen measures roughly half an inch in diameter with a weight likely under 5 grams. It exhibits a characteristic metallic luster with a brassy, pale yellow hue, though it shows significant oxidation and dulling, leading to a brownish-tan superficial patina in several areas. The construction is a naturally occurring crystalline aggregate; while pyrite often forms perfect isometric cubes, this specific piece appears more massive or granular in structure with irregular, jagged edges. There are no visible maker's marks or stamps as it is a geological mineral specimen. The surface condition is rough and weathered, showing minor crumbling and loss of reflective quality due to environmental exposure. It likely lacks the distinct crystal faces seen in higher-quality museum specimens, indicating it is a common field-collected or mass-market tumbled sample. In terms of age, the mineral itself is millions of years old, though its time since extraction is unknown. The quality is indicative of a low-grade mineral sample used for educational kits or as a novelty souvenir.