• Pyrite Pendant – Sterling Silver, Elongated Crystal Cluster
  • Pyrite Pendant – Sterling Silver, Elongated Crystal Cluster
  • Pyrite Pendant – Sterling Silver, Elongated Crystal Cluster
  • Pyrite Pendant – Sterling Silver, Elongated Crystal Cluster
  • Pyrite Pendant – Sterling Silver, Elongated Crystal Cluster
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Rocks On The Rocks

Pyrite Pendant – Sterling Silver, Elongated Crystal Cluster

Pyrite Pendant – Sterling Silver, Elongated Crystal Cluster

$185.00 AUD
$185.00 AUD
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This pendant is set with a raw, uncut pyrite crystal in an elongated, oblong form — its long axis running horizontally beneath the bail rather than hanging point-down. The crystal's striated faces catch the light in bands as it moves, brassy gold in some spots and silvery grey in others. It's held on slender claws that let light reach the stone from underneath as well as above, and hangs from a fine sterling silver chain. Pyrite occurs in many locations worldwide, and pieces like this are chosen for their natural, unaltered crystal form rather than cut to a standard gem shape.

About Pyrite

Pyrite is an iron sulfide mineral best known by its nickname "fool's gold," earned from its brassy, metallic lustre and blocky, cube-like crystal habit that can resemble gold at a glance. Unlike gold, pyrite is brittle rather than malleable, and it forms in sharp-edged crystals with a bright, almost mirrored shine on fresh faces. It's mined in many parts of the world and has long been prized by mineral collectors for exactly the qualities this piece keeps intact — natural crystal form, uncut and unpolished, so the stone reads as a specimen rather than a conventional gem.

Specifications

  • Stone: Pyrite (natural, uncut crystal)
  • Size: 22 x 15 mm
  • Setting: Prong-set, sterling silver
  • Metal: Sterling Silver
  • Chain: Sterling silver, fine link
  • Availability: One-of-a-kind — 1 piece available

Caring for Your Pyrite

Pyrite is an iron sulfide, and it can tarnish or dull if it's kept damp — moisture and humidity are its main enemies. Keep it dry, take it off before swimming, showering or anything sweaty, and store it separately from other jewellery in a dry spot. A soft dry cloth is usually enough to keep it looking bright; skip ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners and harsh chemicals.

Provenance

Hand-selected by Joseph Bernecki and set in his Sydney workshop. Meet him any weekend at The Rocks Market, stall under the bridge, Sydney. Read Joseph's story →

Common Questions

Is pyrite the same as gold?
No — pyrite is an iron sulfide, chemically nothing like gold, even though its brassy colour and metallic shine have fooled prospectors for centuries (hence "fool's gold"). It's a genuine mineral in its own right, valued for its crystal form rather than as a precious metal substitute.
Is the chain sterling silver?
Yes — both the pendant setting and the chain are sterling silver.
Does pyrite tarnish?
It can, if it's kept damp for long periods — pyrite is an iron sulfide and moisture is its main weak point. Keeping it dry and stored separately when not being worn will keep it bright for a long time.
Certification, shipping, returns?
Every piece is backed by Joseph's personal guarantee, ships free and insured within Australia (flat $25 to the rest of the world), and any concerns are worked through with Joseph directly. See Shipping, Pricing & Turnaround and My Personal Guarantee for full details.
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