Marcasite: It Is, but It Isn't
Let me be frank…marcasite in jewelry is actually pyrite. True marcasite is not actually strong enough to be used in gemstone jewelry. Because it is brittle, true marcasite (much like humans, except not in the emotional context) can snap and go to pieces.
True marcasite is similar to pyrite, but their atomic or crystal structures are different. Marcasite is more brittle, and not as heavy, as pyrite. True marcasite is chemically unstable and with exposure to bacteria and air moisture over time, some (but not all) marcasite will disintegrate into white powder, emitting an odor of sulphur. It is a condition known as pyrite decay, and the affected specimens should be isolated. When true marcasite is fractured, the color is white, but exposure to air causes tarnishing. It is for these reasons that true marcasite does not make it as a gemstone.
 For jewelry purposes, pyrite is used. It is 6.0 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Pyrite’s name in the jewelry trade is improperly known as marcasite. In 1845, marcasite was a name given to pyrite and other bronze colored minerals by Arabic or Moorish cultures. The non-gemstone color of marcasite is bronze or yellow with a metallic luster. The gemstone color of marcasite is black with a slightly silver appearance.
Marcasite, which has also been called white iron pyrite, or fool’s gold, has been found in France, Peru, Russia, Mexico, China, and the United States.
For jewelry, marcasite gemstones are usually quite small. It is common to see marcasite used in pieces that are made of sterling silver or other very light colored metals.
Marcasite has very affordable prices. Loose stones can sometimes be purchased for under a dollar (US).
Because marcasite is not a very strong gemstone, it is advisable not to wear it while performing strenuous activities. Also, do not expose this gemstone to excessive heat or any situations that involve using harsh chemicals. Normal gemstone care is suggested for marcasite gemstones. Warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush or soft cloth would be the best cleaning methods.
So remember…marcasite for jewelry purposes is actually pyrite, which is a moderately durable stone. It differs from true marcasite, which is chemically unstable and would never survive gemstone or gemstone jewelry usage.
Marcasite looks good and costs very little. That combination definitely makes it an attractive stone. All that glitters is not necessarily gold, and all that is marcasite is not actually marcasite.
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