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What is fool's gold?

Iron pyrite (FeS₂) is a mineral popularly known as "fool's gold." Because of its metallic shine and pale brass yellow color, it is often mistaken for gold. Real gold is much heavier and softer than iron pyrite. And, unlike iron pyrite, real gold is not brittle and not grooved.

Sources: Bates, Robert, and Julia A. Jackson. Glossary of Geology, 3rd ed., p. 540; Fejer, Eva, and Cecilia Fitzsimons. An Instant Guide to Rocks and Minerals, p. 104.

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