what properties distinguish pyrite from gold?
Pyrite is harder than gold. While Pyriteâs hardness is 6 to 6.5, gold has hardness around 2 to 3. Pyrite also contains high amount of iron. There is also a big difference in the specific gravity between gold and pyrite.While gold has a specific gravity of 15.6/19.3, pyrite has 5.0.old vs Pyrite. It is easy to make out the difference between Gold and pyrite. They have much difference in their structure, colour, hardness and specific gravity. When comparing gold and pyrite with regard to their colour, both have a metallic lustre but have different yellow tones.
To tell the difference between pyrite and real gold, you can check  the color and shape of the ore. Gold and pyrite have a yellowish  color but pyrite has a pale and brassy â¦ color compared to gold.  Pyrites are shaped more like crystals while gold tends to form as a  nugget.Another difference between the two is that gold can be  scratched with a pocketknife while pyrite cannot be scratched.old and pyrite have a yellowish  color but pyrite has a pale and brassy â¦ color compared to gold.  Pyrites are shaped more like crystals while gold tends to form as a  nugget. Another difference between the two is that gold can be  scratched with a pocketknife while pyrite cannot be scratched.