Markasite: The 1000-Year-Old Mineral With 87% Iron Content

What is Markasite?

Markasite is a mineral composed of iron disulfide (FeS2). It forms in hydrothermal veins and is often associated with other sulfide minerals such as pyrite, chalcopyrite, and sphalerite. Markasite is a brittle mineral with a metallic luster and a pale bronze color. It is often referred to as "white iron pyrite" because of its resemblance to pyrite but its color is lighter.

History of Markasite

Markasite has been used as a gemstone for centuries. The earliest known use of markasite in jewelry dates back to the 1st century AD. Markasite was also used in the Middle Ages to make armor and weapons. In the 18th century, markasite was used to create decorative objects such as jewelry, buttons, and buckles. Today, markasite is still used in jewelry, but it is also used in a variety of other applications, including construction and manufacturing.

Properties of Markasite

Markasite is a hard mineral with a Mohs hardness of 6.5. It has a specific gravity of 4.9 g/cm3 and a melting point of 1171°C. Markasite is a relatively brittle mineral and can be easily scratched or broken. It is also susceptible to tarnishing and can form a black coating of iron oxide when exposed to air.

Uses of Markasite

Markasite is used in a variety of applications, including:

• Jewelry: Markasite is used in a variety of jewelry items, including rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. It is often set in silver or gold and can be used to create a variety of different looks.
• Construction: Markasite is used as a construction material in a variety of applications, including roads, buildings, and bridges. It is also used as a fill material in embankments and other earthworks.
• Manufacturing: Markasite is used in a variety of manufacturing processes, including the production of iron, steel, and other metals. It is also used in the production of glass, ceramics, and chemicals.

Benefits of Markasite

Markasite offers a number of benefits, including:

• Durability: Markasite is a hard and durable mineral that can withstand wear and tear. It is also resistant to corrosion and tarnishing.
• Versatility: Markasite can be used in a variety of applications, including jewelry, construction, and manufacturing. It is also a relatively inexpensive material.
• Aesthetics: Markasite has a beautiful metallic luster and a pale bronze color. It can be used to create a variety of different looks, from classic to modern.

Conclusion

Markasite is a versatile and durable mineral that has been used for centuries in a variety of applications. Its unique properties make it a valuable material for a wide range of uses.

Additional Information

• Markasite is the national mineral of the state of Illinois.
• The largest known deposit of markasite is located in the United States in the state of Missouri.
• Markasite is often used as a substitute for pyrite in jewelry because it is less expensive and more durable.
• Markasite can be used to create a variety of different colors, including gold, silver, and black.
• Markasite is a relatively rare mineral, but it is found in a variety of locations around the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between markasite and pyrite?
  Markasite and pyrite are both iron sulfide minerals, but they have different crystal structures. Markasite has an orthorhombic crystal structure, while pyrite has a cubic crystal structure. This difference in crystal structure gives markasite a different appearance than pyrite. Markasite is also less hard and less dense than pyrite.
• How can I tell if a piece of jewelry is made of markasite?
  Markasite is a relatively soft mineral, so it can be scratched easily. If you can scratch a piece of jewelry with your fingernail, it is likely made of markasite. Markasite also has a metallic luster and a pale bronze color.
• How can I care for markasite jewelry?
  Markasite jewelry should be stored in a cool, dry place. It should not be exposed to water or harsh chemicals. Markasite jewelry can be cleaned with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution.

Related Articles

• Pyrite: The Fool's Gold
• Chalcopyrite: The Copper Iron Sulfide Mineral
• Sphalerite: The Zinc Sulfide Mineral

References

• Markasite
• Pyrite
• Chalcopyrite
• Sphalerite