Free-Standing Pyrite Mineral 

Pyrite is known as iron pyrite and sometimes fool's gold.  This popular mineral crystallises in different forms.  The most common crystal habits are cubes, clusters and octahedrons.

Pyrite also crystallises in massive form.  In this formation crystals grow together to form one large tightly intergrown mass.  For this reason they have no visible external shape.

Another dark coloured mineral also seems to be present in this piece but it's difficult to tell what it is.  It's likely to be a sulphide mineral.

The brassy yellow crystallised face of this pyrite has a slightly rough texture.  It has a bright metallic lustre so reflects light although that can't be fully appreciated from our photos.

The back is smooth and has a dull lustre meaning it absorbs light instead of reflecting it.