pyrite

Definition

The common mineral iron disulfide (FeS₂), of a pale brass-yellow color and brilliant metallic luster, crystallizing in the isometric system.

Etymology

Recorded since 1555, from Old French pyrite (12th century), from Latin pȳritēs, from Ancient Greek πυρίτης λίθος (purítēs líthos, “stone of fire, flint”) (so called because it glitters), notably the first part: adjective πυρίτης (purítēs, “of or in fire”), from πῦρ (pûr, “fire”). Analyzable as pyr- + -ite

Example Sentences

• "The pyrite output in 1961 was 1.2 million tons, derived mainly from the Hsiang Shan mine in Anhwei and the Ying-te mine in Kwangtung."
• "China's 13 large foreign fertilizer plants ordered a few years ago are all scheduled to be in operation in a year or two.[…]China's biggest pyrite mine (openpit), being built in Yunfu, Kwangtung Province, was near completion."
• "Copper diselenide can occur both as a marcasite and a pyrite."