Is MARCASITE the same as IRON PYRITE?

Yes. MARCASITE, IRON PYRITE all denote the same material — decorative-mineral. Different markets and eras stamp it differently, but the purity is identical.

How do I confirm a MARCASITE stamp is genuine?

Look at the mark under 10× magnification for crisp, even strikes, cross-check the weight-to-volume ratio against the expected density, scan it with the Jewelry Identifier app, and — when it matters — have an XRF test done by an assay office or gemological lab.

* decorative-mineral hallmark

The MARCASITE hallmark: meaning, purity & value

Marcasite: iron pyrite (FeS2) used as small faceted accent stones, particularly in Victorian and Art Deco silver jewelry. The 'marcasite' jewelry trade designation usually refers to pyrite, not true marcasite (which oxidizes).

Published May 30, 2026

Quick facts

Metal: decorative-mineral
Common regions: international

Stamps that mean the same thing

This purity may be struck into jewelry as any of: MARCASITE / IRON PYRITE. The mark differs by country and era, but the metal content is identical.

What MARCASITE tells you

How to check it yourself

Examine the stamp under a 10× loupe — genuine marks are crisp and evenly struck, not doubled or smeared.
Confirm the mark reads MARCASITE or an equivalent such as IRON PYRITE.
Photograph it in the Jewelry Identifier app to read the metal, hallmark, and any gemstones from the image.
For a binding result, have an assay office or gemological lab run an XRF purity test.

* Frequently asked

FAQ

Q. Is MARCASITE the same as IRON PYRITE?: A. Yes. MARCASITE, IRON PYRITE all denote the same material — decorative-mineral. Different markets and eras stamp it differently, but the purity is identical.
Q. How do I confirm a MARCASITE stamp is genuine?: A. Look at the mark under 10× magnification for crisp, even strikes, cross-check the weight-to-volume ratio against the expected density, scan it with the Jewelry Identifier app, and — when it matters — have an XRF test done by an assay office or gemological lab.

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