What Is Marcasite?

What is marcasite? 

Marcasite is a metallic, iron sulfide mineral. It has been used for thousands of years as a gemstone in jewellery pieces with its fascinating metallic lustre.

It is popular today especially in vintage jewellery pieces. 

Marcasite is a very versatile stone and looks good with almost any outfit. It shimmers and sparkles with a silvery-yellow metallic look. 

Most marcasite jewellery today is actually pyrite because pyrite is much more durable. Pyrite and marcasite have the same crystal makeup but slightly different crystal structure. 

Marcasite is generally the term used to describe pyrite & in fact most marcasite jewellery features pyrite as the main compound due to its better durability.

Pyrite jewellery has been called Marcasite jewellery for so long that it has continued to be called Marcasite. 

Where does marcasite come from? 

It forms at surface or near surface levels by precipitation from acidic waters. It is often found in limestone, shale or coal deposits where it grows in a variety of shapes from flat, thin to blade-like & spear-like crystals form that sparkles. 

Marcasite is found fairly abundantly worldwide, with the US & Peru being major producers. 

The value of marcasite

Marcasite jewellery is generally very affordable because of its abundance with a similar sparkle to more expensive alternatives (such as diamonds). It is rarely used in high end jewellery today due to its relative brittleness, other materials are sought. 

The History Of Marcasite

Early records of marcasite were found in Egyptian tombs of Pharaohs prized for its reflective qualities. Cleopatra used to wear marcasite to enhance her beauty. 

Historians have found Marcasite jewellery in Ancient Greek culture. The Incas used Marcasite to adorn objects & in their jewellery and its popularity is evident in the amount of material discovered in South America. 

Art Deco Marcasite jewellery

In the 1920s Marcasite was frequently used in light / dark contrast. Often a centre piece would be surrounded by Marcasite in intricate patterns to highlight & contrast the main stone. This era still has its influences in modern marcasite jewellery. 

The Victorian Era

Queen Victoria wore Marcasite jewellery in place of more expensive pieces & this started a mass trend in Marcasite jewellery. As a result marcasite in jewellery boomed during the 18th & 19th century / the Victorian era. 

Additionally, marcasite was often appreciated during the period because of the way it sparkled in candle light. 

Shop the Lucy Jurado selection of marcasite silver rings. 

Care & handling Marcasite

• It is important to ensure your Marcasite avoids any moisture that can cause it to break down and release corrosive sulfuric acid which will irritate the skin. So avoid showering, swimming or exercising with your marcasite jewellery. 

• Use a soft & dry cloth to clean the surfaces of marcasite jewellery. 

• Avoid excessive brushing as your marcasite may become scratched or damaged.