Marcasite vs. Pyrite — What's the Difference?
Difference Between Marcasite and Pyrite
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Compare with Definitions
Marcasite
The mineral marcasite, sometimes called “white iron pyrite”, is iron sulfide (FeS2) with orthorhombic crystal structure. It is physically and crystallographically distinct from pyrite, which is iron sulfide with cubic crystal structure.
Pyrite
The mineral pyrite (), or iron pyrite, also known as fool's gold, is an iron sulfide with the chemical formula FeS2 (iron (II) disulfide). Pyrite is the most abundant sulfide mineral.
Marcasite
A mineral with the same composition as pyrite, FeS2, but differing in crystal structure. Also called white iron pyrites.
Pyrite
A brass-colored mineral, FeS2, occurring widely and used as an iron ore and in producing sulfur dioxide for sulfuric acid. Also called fool's gold, iron pyrites.
Marcasite
An ornament of pyrite, polished steel, or white metal.
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Pyrite
(mineral) The common mineral iron disulfide (FeS2), of a pale brass-yellow color and brilliant metallic luster, crystallizing in the isometric system.
Marcasite
(mineral) The orthorhombic form of iron disulfide, FeS2, occurring as yellow crystals.
Pyrite
(usually as a plural: pyrites) Any metallic-looking sulphide, such as the above, which is the most common.
Marcasite
(jewellery) Pyrite.
Pyrite
(usually as a plural: pyrites) Any metal dichalcogenide that is isostructural to the common mineral.
Copper diselenide can occur both as a marcasite and a pyrite.
Marcasite
(historical) Any of various metal sulfides, usually iron sulfide minerals.
Pyrite
A common mineral of a pale brass-yellow color and brilliant metallic luster, crystallizing in the isometric system; iron pyrites; iron disulphide.
Hence sable coal his massy couch extends,And stars of gold the sparkling pyrite blends.
Marcasite
A sulphide of iron resembling pyrite or common iron pyrites in composition, but differing in form; white iron pyrites.
Pyrite
A common mineral (iron disulfide) that has a pale yellow color
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