• Pyrite Ring – Sterling Silver, Raw Crystal Cluster
  • Pyrite Ring – Sterling Silver, Raw Crystal Cluster
1 2

Rocks On The Rocks

Pyrite Ring – Sterling Silver, Raw Crystal Cluster

Pyrite Ring – Sterling Silver, Raw Crystal Cluster

$175.00 AUD
$175.00 AUD
Sale Sold out
Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

This ring is set with a raw, uncut pyrite crystal — left in its natural cube-faceted form rather than cut or polished into a gem shape. The crystal's sharp edges and striated faces catch the light with pyrite's signature brassy, metallic lustre, shifting from pale gold to silvery grey depending on the angle. It's held above a wide, polished sterling silver band on tall claw prongs, so the crystal sits proud and the light can reach its facets from every side. The effect is closer to a mineral specimen than a conventional gemstone ring — a piece for someone who wants their jewellery to look like it came out of the ground, because it did.

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: Claw-set, sterling silver
  • Metal: Sterling Silver
  • 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.
Why does this ring use a raw crystal instead of a polished stone?
Pyrite naturally grows in sharp, cube-like crystal faces that already catch the light well, so this piece is set as found rather than cut or faceted. It's a deliberate choice — the ring reads as a mineral specimen you can wear, not a conventional gem.
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.
View full details