Fool's Gold
Don't be fooled: These quick tests separate pyrite from real gold.
Article by: Hobart M. King, Ph.D., RPG
What Is Fool's Gold?
"Fool's gold" is a common nickname for pyrite. Pyrite received that nickname because it is worth virtually nothing, but has an appearance that "fools" people into believing that it is gold. With a little practice, there are many easy tests that anyone can use to quickly tell the difference between pyrite and gold.
The nickname "fool's gold" has long been used by gold buyers and prospectors, who were amused by excited people who thought they had found gold. These people did not know how to tell the difference between pyrite and gold, and their ignorance caused them to look foolish.
https://geology.com/gold/fools-gold/
