[ noun ] a common mineral (iron disulfide) that has a pale yellow color <noun.substance>
Pyrite \Pyr"ite\, n.; pl. {Pyrites}. [Cf. F. pyrite. See {Pyrites}.] (Min.) A common mineral of a pale brass-yellow color and brilliant metallic luster, crystallizing in the isometric system; iron pyrites; iron disulphide.
Hence sable coal his massy couch extends, And stars of gold the sparkling pyrite blends. --E. Darwin.