Named in antiquity from the Greek "pyros" for "fire" because sparks flew from it when hit with another mineral or a metal. Pyrite is a very common mineral, found in a wide variety of geological formations from sedimentary deposits to hydrothermal veins and as a constituent of metamorphic rocks. The brassy-yellow metallic color of Pyrite has in many cases lead to people mistaking it for Gold, hence the common nickname 'Fools Gold'. Pyrite is quite easy to distinguish from Gold, it is much lighter, but harder and cannot be scratched with a fingernail or pocket knife.
Pyrite was very often used for scrying. The Mayans, Aztecs and Incas, at one time, all were known to polish large slabs of Pyrite to a mirror-like finish which they used for this very purpose.
Native Americans believed they could look into one's very soul when peering into a polished piece of Pyrite. Their shamans used it as "a stone of power," and their medicine men used it in certain healing rituals. Pyrite has also been labeled the "Healer's Stone".
The ancient Chinese viewed the earth as a golden cube, a vision well emulated by Pyrite. They also believed that Pyrite would guard against crocodile attacks.
Pyrite is thought to create a better balance and flow between right and left brain function. This helps transform the intuitive and creative (right brain) thought into logical and well-reasoned (left brain) action.
These metallic crystals are often used to attract money and good fortune. It is also widely used to protect against infections and viral attacks, and to help one attain a more ideal state of health.
An interesting parallel - Edgar Cayce, commonly known as "The Sleeping Prophet", recommended that "to carry a piece of Carbon Steel in one's pocket (preferably a groin pocket) would inhibit one from catching a cold or infection". Carbon Steel is a mixture of Iron and Carbon, to which Pyrite is similar and claims the same health benefit.
The ancient Greeks used polished Pyrite in various types of jewelry and amulets. During the Victorian Age in England, jewelry made with Pyrite was extremely popular.
Pyrite assists one in seeing behind the facades, promoting understanding of that which lies beneath words and actions. It can be used to stimulate the powers of the intellect, enhancing memory and providing for recall of relevant information, when required.
Pyrite also encourages and sustains the flawless ideal of health, intellect, and emotional well-being. It symbolized the warmth and lasting presence of the sun and promotes the recall of beautiful memories of love and friendship.
(Astrological Signs of Leo)
Vibrates to the number 3
Gives physical aid in treating: Infections, viruses and fevers; blood disorders; increases blood flow to the brain and improves circulatory system; increases memory; bone and cellular formation; helps repair DNA/RNA damage; fatigue, lung problems; digestive tract problems; relieves anxiety and stress.
