Pyrite comes from the Sulfide family for its high sulfur and iron content. Pyrite stone is prized for its golden yellow color, and was known as "fool's gold" for its resemblance to gold. Today, this natural stone is widely used in the world of lithotherapy for its benefits, but also in the world of jewelry for its magnificent golden metallic sparkle.

History of Pyrite

Pyrite comes from the Greek "pyros" meaning "fire", as it has the ability to produce sparks. It was given its name in 1845 by an Austrian mineralogist named Wilhelm Karl Ritter von Haidinger.

Pyrite has been used since the dawn of time by different peoples for a variety of purposes. As far back as prehistoric times, the natural stone was used to create fire. Later, the Inca civilization used it as a mirror, thanks to its reflective properties. Among the Greeks, Pyrite was used for ornamental purposes and the creation of jewelry, such as necklaces and bracelets.

During the North American gold rush, Pyrite was often confused with gold and called "fool's gold", due to its gold-like lustre.

In the 1900s, Pyrite became a highly prized metal in metallurgy, notably for its production of sulfur and sulfuric acid. Even today, this natural stone is much used in the metallurgical industry.

Origin and composition of Pyrite

Pyrite belongs to the sulfide family. More precisely, this natural stone is an iron bisulfide, composed mainly of iron and sulfur, with the chemical formula FeS2.

Natural Pyrite forms in sulfur and iron-rich solutions, typically in hydrothermal deposits, organic sediments or iron ore veins. The stone is formed when sulfur and iron crystallize, following high pressure and temperature.

Pyrite stone is generally golden-yellow in color, and depending on certain impurities (calcite, quartz, arsenopyrite), its purity can be more or less nuanced.

Origin of Pyrite

Pyrite can be mined all over the world, but the main deposits are found in Peru, Spain, the USA, Mexico, China, India and South Africa.

Pyrite's hardness is 6 on the Mohs scale.

Virtues and significance of Pyrite in lithotherapy

Pyrite is a stone of creativity.

Pyrite in lithotherapy

On a physical level, Pyrite is a natural stone with a thousand virtues and purifying properties. In lithotherapy, Pyrite improves mental capacities such as memory and intellectual faculties, and liquefies the entire respiratory system. The stone enhances blood circulation and increases red blood cell count. Last but not least, Pyrite is able to provide better energy for very tired people and helps relieve menstrual pain.

On the mental level in lithotherapy, Pyrite enhances creativity, organization and inspiration, especially for people working in architecture or in professions where fire is present. But it doesn't stop there: it brings vitality and concentration, creating a shield against negative energies.

Please note that lithotherapy is not a substitute for medical treatment or expertise.

Meaning of Pyrite

Pyrite stone is a symbol of vitality, energy and concretization.

Pyrite stone is associated with the root chakra to enhance vitality, self-confidence and blood circulation. The natural stone is also associated with the solar plexus chakra, which strengthens the digestive system and brings dynamism, determination and, above all, vitality.

Pyrite is closely linked to the astrological signs of Libra, Aries and Leo.

Pyrite care, purification and recharging

To care for your Pyrite stones, we suggest the following methods:

Pyrite cleaning and purification

It's important to thoroughly clean and purify your Pyrite:

• Clean with clear water or a soft brush (toothbrush) to gently remove dirt,

• Purify by fumigation, leaving the Pyrite stone in the purifying herb smoke for a short time.

Pyrite recharging

Don't forget to recharge your Pyrite stone to take full advantage of its powers:

• Recharge it with sunlight, moonlight, by burying it underground, or by placing a cluster of quartz next to it.