Marcasite

Marcasite is a mineral, often mistaken for pyrite, used in jewelry for its metallic luster and pale brass-yellow hue.

Part of speech: noun
Definition: Marcasite, in the context of jewelry, refers to a mineral that is commonly mistaken for pyrite, earning the nickname 'fool's gold.' Unlike its doppelganger, marcasite itself is not used in jewelry due to its brittleness; instead, the term in the jewelry industry typically refers to small pieces of pyrite used as decorative stones, especially in vintage and antique jewelry pieces. The appeal of marcasite jewelry lies in its subtle yet vibrant metallic luster, offering an antiquated look that harks back to Victorian times and suits intricate designs. This material's distinct pale brass-yellow color, comparable to gold, allows for an affordable option in creating pieces that resonate with the vintage aesthetic without the high cost of gold.