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Pyrite

A Natural History of Fool's Gold

ebook
1 of 2 copies available
1 of 2 copies available
Most people have heard of pyrite, the brassy yellow mineral sometimes known as fool's gold. Pyrite behaves like stone and shines like metal, and its dual nature makes it a source of both metals and sulfur. Despite being the most common sulfide mineral on the earth's surface, pyrite's bright crystals have attracted the attention of many different cultures, and its nearly identical visual appearance to gold has led to tales of fraud, trickery, and claims of alchemy. Pyrite occupies a unique place in human history: it became an integral part of mining culture in America during the 19th century, and it has a presence in ancient Sumerian texts, Greek philosophy, and medieval poetry, becoming a symbol for anything overvalued. In Pyrite, geochemist and author David Rickard blends basic science and historical narrative to describe the many unique ways pyrite is integral to our world. He explains the basic science of oxidation, showing us why the mineral looks like gold, and inspects death zones of present oceans where pyrite-related hydrogen sulfide destroys oxygen in the waters. Rickard analyzes pyrite's role in manufacturing sulfuric acid and discusses the significant appearance of the mineral in literature, history, and the development of societies. The mineral's influence extends from human evolution and culture, through science and industry, to our understanding of ancient, modern, and future earth environments. Energetic and accessible, Pyrite is the first book to show readers the history and science of a mineral that helped make the modern world.
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    • Library Journal

      April 15, 2015

      Everyone is familiar with the feeling of excitement when they spot a shining bit of gold in a gravel lot, only to be disappointed when they realize it's fool's gold, or pyrite. From the etymology of the term fool's gold and the chemistry surrounding pyrite to the mineral's roles in nature and the environment and pyrite's involvement in the early stages of life on earth, Rickard (earth & ocean sciences, Cardiff Univ.; Sulfidic Sediments and Sedimentary Rocks) explores every facet of iron sulfide. The author is a professed expert in the field of sulfur compounds, and that knowledge comes through in every aspect of the book. He makes a strong case for pyrite being one of the most central compounds to human history as well as to the history of our planet. However, one of the biggest drawbacks to this work is the lack of passion in the writing. While the material is certainly informative, readers may find it a bit dry and excessively factual. VERDICT A highly instructive book delivered by a foremost expert in the field. Those interested in inorganic chemistry's influence on the history of the earth and the environment are sure to enjoy this book.--John Kromer, Miami Univ. of Ohio Lib., Oxford, OH

      Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

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