About Marcasite Jewellery by Yanaka Elite Silver: A Marcasite Jeweler of Thailand.

Origins of Marcasite Jewellery 

Marcasite is the name given the mineral iron sulfide, which is mined all over the world. However, most of the gem called marcasite used in jewelry is actually iron pyrite, since genuine marcasite often crumbles into dust and is thus too delicate to be used in jewelry.

The Incas are the first known civilization to have used Marcasite stones in Jewellery with notable Marcasite Jewellery pieces having been found in several Inca’s burial chambers.

However in 12th century Saint Louis IX of France established a law reserving diamonds for the kings and (aristocrats) nobles.  These laws were introduced to protect and regulate the social hierarchies and morals of the lower orders through restrictions on luxury goods ie Jewellery.

Although pyrite (marcasite) has been used in jewellery for centuries, it became popular as a substitute for diamonds in the 18th century, particularly in Switzerland, where the use of diamonds was restricted by law.


Marcasite Jewellery gained its popularity during Queen Victoria's reign after the death of her husband Prince Albert in 1861. After Albert’s death, Queen Victoria only wore dark clothing and Jewellery to symbolize her widowhood and everyone followed her style.  The Queen’s favorite Jewellery were Marcasite brooches, lockets, cameos and earrings...

The marcasite used in jewelry today is a form of iron pyrite. With its metallic luster and fiery sparkle, marcasite has also been called Fool's Gold. When cut with facets, marcasite shimmers like tiny diamonds, but is much more affordable.

Why is sterling silver used for Marcasite Jewellery?
Sterling silver is used in all Marcasite Jewellery as the darkness of the Marcasite stones compliments the light color of silver as well as its reflectivity. However, Marcasite and gold does not seem to have the same effect as the yellowish tint of gold tends to clash with the yellow brass tone of Marcasite which makes both minerals looks dull and ruddy. There are many jewelers who are working on overcoming this issue.

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