Navajun, Spain

Pyrite crystals naturally occur and crystallize in cubic formation to create a crystal that looks like it has been cut and polished by a jeweler. The Pyrite seen here was completely embedded in rock and must be carefully and methodically extracted by hand using a chisel and hammer.

Prized since antiquity for its warm, golden luster and similar appearance to gold, Pyrite has earned its spot in many collectors’ displays. The mineral gets its name from the Greek, meaning “of fire,” for its ability to create sparks when struck against steel.