Locality: Ambasaguas, Muro de Aguas, La Rioja, Spain

Pyrite is iron disulfide, FeS₂, the most abundant and widespread sulfide mineral. Its name comes from the Greek for fire, because sparks can be struck from it. It is pale brass-yellow with a bright metallic lustre, hard for a sulfide at 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, and grows as cubes, pyritohedra, octahedra and combinations of these.

The pyrite deposits of the Cameros Basin in La Rioja, including Navajún and Ambasaguas, are listed by the Spanish Geological Survey (IGME) as a site of geological interest, described as unique worldwide for the perfection and size of their crystals, up to 10 cm along an edge. The crystals are scattered through metre-thick marl layers in Early Cretaceous rocks. They formed during hydrothermal metamorphism, when deep fluids mobilised sulfur while the iron came from the surrounding sediment.

At Ambasaguas, pyritohedra and cubes predominate. A study of crystal shapes across the basin found that the rocks hosting Ambasaguas were laid down on deltaic plains with frequent lake episodes, rich in organic matter, while those hosting Navajún formed in meandering river systems.

This one-of-a-kind Pyrite cluster mineral specimen from Ambas Aguas, La Rioja, Spain features a compact grouping of brassy metallic Pyrite crystals with chunky modified cubic forms and broad reflective faces. The specimen shows a mix of bright gold-silver luster, darker smoky tarnish, reddish-bronze patches, and natural surface texture across the crystal faces. Several crystals have stepped growth patterns, beveled edges, light pitting, and visible striations, giving the piece a solid, natural mined look with good shape and display presence.

Pyrite is an iron sulfide mineral best known for its metallic luster and pale brass-yellow color, which is why it has long been nicknamed “fool’s gold.” Spain is one of the classic sources for well-formed Pyrite crystals, especially from La Rioja, where Pyrite is known for producing clean cubes, intergrown clusters, and sharp crystal groups. The locality is often associated with the Ambas Aguas area in La Rioja, Spain, a well-known Spanish Pyrite source for collectors.

Spiritually, Pyrite is commonly associated with confidence, protection, willpower, focus, and practical motivation. Many people use it as a stone for work spaces, business settings, and personal drive because of its heavy metallic look and gold-like color. These meanings are traditional and metaphysical, not scientific claims.

Chemical Composition: FeS2

Quantity: 1pc
With this product, you will get the actual stone in the photograph.