Spying that shining, sparkling, golden colored rock, how many men have cried, “It’s gold!” only to be told they are a fool.  Who is that masked rock pretending to be gold?  It’s pyrite, known for years as fool’s gold.   Too hard, too brittle, too light golden, pyrite could trick anyone.  Although pyrite might argue it never meant to fool anyone because it’s pretty special in it’s own way.

Pyrite is an iron sulfide mineral and is found around the world in a variety of forms. The name pyrite drives from the Greek pyr or pyros, meaning fire for it’s ability to emit sparks when struck together or against a hard surface. Pyrite was highly prized by American Indians as a healing stone of magic. 

Polished into mirrors for gazing and divination.   During the Victorian Age it was used in jewelry.  But it’s biggest claim to fame occurred during World War 2 when it was mined as a source of sulfur for producing sulfuric acid used in industry.

The healing properties of pyrite are numerous.  It’s a protective stone and is excellent to wear or carry as an amulet to deflect against emotional and physical harm and danger.  Guarding against criticism and manipulation by others, it helps make people feel an increased sense of self-worth and assertiveness.  Making it extremely helpful for dealing with depression and difficult times.

Pyrite stimulates the Third or Solar Plexus Chakra. the chakra of relationships.  It also identifies with the Sacral Chakra or Second Chakra controlling the flow of energy and is the center of gravity for the body.

Traditionally, pyrite is known as a stone of luck, attracting wealth and prosperity to the user.  Meditation with pyrite can encourage greater frequency in moments that inspire while grounding you at the same time.  A versatile stone that aids one in a variety of areas.

The beauty of pyrite lies not only in its looks but in the wonderful bounty it can bring you.  It may not have the monetary value of gold but certainly it has the golden attributes of healing, protecting and attracting prosperity.  A stone of worth at any time in your life.