Marcasite

Marcasite

SCIENCE / MINERALOGY
Marcasite is iron disulfide, FeS₂, the orthorhombic polymorph of pyrite. Despite identical chemistry, its crystal structure and stability differ from cubic pyrite. Marcasite forms pale brass-yellow to silvery metallic tabular, spear-like, cockscomb, radiating, nodular, and massive habits.

GEOLOGY & FORMATION
Marcasite forms under relatively low-temperature, often acidic conditions in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, coal-associated environments, and replacement deposits. It commonly occurs with pyrite, galena, sphalerite, calcite, fluorite, and barite. Some specimens can decompose in humid conditions, producing sulfuric acid and iron sulfates.

METAPHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Marcasite is traditionally associated with grounding, patience, endurance, focus, and achieving results through steady rather than impulsive effort. Its visual similarity to pyrite but distinct crystal structure provides symbolism of similar goals being reached through different pathways.

KEY PROPERTIES
Grounding • Patience • Endurance • Focus • Discipline • Balance • Persistence

CHAKRA: Root • Solar Plexus
ELEMENT: Earth • Storm
ZODIAC: Taurus • Leo
MOHS HARDNESS: 6–6.5

ACCURACY / TRADE-NAME NOTE
Iron sulfide, not iron oxide. Marcasite can chemically deteriorate in humidity; many 'marcasite' jewelry stones are actually pyrite.