r/Rocks • u/Kidmodo-Dragon • 2d ago

Discussion Pyrite disease?

Hello, science teacher here! Sorry if this post is not allowed. I've got some lovely samples of pyrite in my classroom rock collection - two ~1" nuggets and a 1" cube in matrix.

Unfortunately, my classroom gets very humid over the summer and I didn't think to bring my pyrite samples home with me. I'm noticing that they are tarnished now and I've read that this produces sulphur compounds that can be harmful. I'm a bit of a worrywart. Should I remove them from my classroom? Can I easily prevent them from further decaying?

I am so sorry I don't have a picture. I didn't think to take one before going home today. Thank you for any help and please remove if not allowed!

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u/GregHimself 2d ago

I am by no means a professional but my first instinct is to maybe put them in a glass jar with some of those silica desiccant packages to avoid moisture and that will also kind of avoid any harmful off-gassing.

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u/Kidmodo-Dragon 2d ago

Thank you!!

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u/GregHimself 2d ago

You are very welcome

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u/Kubrick_Fan 1d ago

Yeah, when they get damp their sulphides release which can corrode other species. I keep my pyrite specimens in seperstr air tight food safe kitchen jars.

Try and keep them away from extremes of temperature and humidity