Pyrite, known as "Fool's Gold" for its gold-like appearance, has a long history in ancient civilizations. The name "pyrite" is derived from the Greek word "pyr," meaning fire, because it sparks when struck against metal or stone. Historically, this mineral was used in early firearms and by indigenous peoples as a sparking material for starting fires.

Geologically, pyrite is an iron sulfide mineral characterized by its metallic luster and pale brass-yellow hue, which can cause it to be mistaken for gold. It forms in a variety of geological environments, often in sedimentary rocks as well as in veins within igneous rocks and metamorphic environments.