Pyrite Pendant – Sterling Silver, Tapered Crystal Cluster

This pendant is set with a raw, uncut pyrite crystal in a compact, tapered form — narrower at the base and widening toward the top, with sharp cube-faceted edges typical of the mineral's natural growth habit. The crystal's faces are densely packed and highly reflective, throwing off bright flashes of metallic light as it catches the light. It's held on slender prongs and hangs from a fine sterling silver chain. Pyrite occurs in many locations worldwide, and this piece is left in its 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)
• Setting: Prong-set, sterling silver
• Size: 24 x 8 mm
• 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