Identification

• Marcasite is a mineral (iron sulfide) found worldwide in various substances. Traces of it can be found in clays, limestones and marls (lime rich muds). It is often confused with pyrite, each being mislabeled as the other substance.
  
  

Uses

• Marcasite has few commercial uses other than an ornamental stone. It is a naturally occurring mineral used in jewelry making. It has a pale yellow color that has a metallic luster. Often, jewelry labeled as having a marcasite stone will actually have a pyrite stone. Each has the same chemical qualities but belong to different crystal classifications; pyrite is isometric, while marcasite is orthorhombic.
  
  

Jewelry

• Marcasite has several qualities that make it desirable as a jewelry mainstay. Marcasite has an affordable price tag. The way light reflects off of it gives it an alternating appearance of both dark and light. Its glossy surface has a beautiful shine. The marcasite stone can be used in a wide variety of jewelry pieces, to create coordinating sets of rings, earrings, necklaces and brooches.
  
  

Worldwide

• Marcasite has been a major export of Thailand to the United States along with lesser sales to Japan. In India, marcasite has traditionally been considered a part of the bride's outfit. In recent years, interest has increased in areas of Asia and Europe. Worldwide, jewelry designers are pairing marcasite with gold and silver, plus gemstones, such as rubies, emeralds and pearls.
  
  

Care of Marcasite Jewelry

• Marcasite settings require special care. It is a soft stone and is usually glued into its setting. Because of this, it must not be soaked in water. Cleaning should be done by wiping with a soft damp cloth, wiping off excess moisture off and then air drying. At no time should hot water or a jewelry steamer be used. Marcasite should not be cleaned with cleaning chemicals. Marcasite jewelry should be shielded from perfume and hairspray.