IGS Background
Pyrrhotite

Pyrrhotite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information


An overview on Pyrrhotite Jewelry and Gemstones. Covers details and essential information on the physical properties and characteristics of Pyrrhotite gems.

HomeGemstonesPyrrhotite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
By Joel E. Arem, Ph.D., FGA, updated on

Also known as pyrrohotite.

Streak: grayish black.

Other Tests: Magnetic, varying in intensity, lost on heating. Decomposed by HCl.

Occurrence: Associated with pyrite and other sulfides throughout the world, often as a magmatic segregation in basic igneous rocks. Occasionally in pegmatites and contact metamorphic rocks, fumaroles, and basalts. Also occurs in meteorites.

Sudbury, Ontario, Canada.

Morro Velho, Brazil.

Rumania; Italy; Germany; Norway; Sweden.

Potosi Mine, Santa Eulalia, Chihuahua, Mexico.

Pennsylvania; Tennessee; New York; Maine; Connecticut.

Name: From a Greek word meaning reddish.

Never Stop Learning

When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.

Become a Member

Get Gemology Insights

Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!