Marcasite Necklaces – Passed Down As Heirlooms?

Marcasite Necklaces

Marcasite, also known as fools gold for its brassy golden luster and association with treasured gems, has a storied history of being used as an alternative to precious jewelry. Popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, marcasite became the jewel of choice for those who could not afford diamonds. Today, marcasite jewellery can be found in a kaleidoscope of styles. Whether you are drawn to the elegance of a bygone era or prefer sleek lines, you’re sure to find the perfect Marcasite necklace for your personality and style.

While the name may sound a bit confusing, marcasite is not a single stone but actually an iron sulfide mineral with a crystal structure that is similar to its twin, pyrite. They are similar chemically but have different structures that make pyrite harder, more workable, and more resistant to tarnishment than marcasite.

For this reason, some jewelers use pyrite in place of genuine marcasite for more cost-effective pieces. However, pyrite is not as durable or as beautiful as marcasite and it also tarnishes quite easily, giving off an unattractive greenish black tinge. Genuine marcasite is more valuable, but it is also much more brittle and difficult to cut into gemstone shapes. It is also easier to crumble than pyrite, making it less ideal for use in jewelry.

Marcasite Necklaces – Passed Down As Heirlooms?

Despite its tarnish-resistant properties, marcasite is still prone to corrosion. It is best worn with care and kept in low-humidity to prevent oxidation and to avoid contact with harsh chemicals. If you do have marcasite earrings, bracelets or brooches, it is important to clean them regularly with a soft cloth or jewelry cleaner to maintain their shine.

While marcasite seems like a mysterious and peculiar gem, its beauty and lustre have been prized since the ancient Greeks, Incas of South America, and even Cleopatra. It was also favored by Victorians and Art Deco designers for its subtle golden glimmer. Although it fell out of favour for a while, marcasite is now enjoying renewed popularity amongst modern shoppers who are looking for alternatives to more expensive precious metal jewellery.

Marcasite is a wonderful complement to deep or dark colours, such as ocean blues and emerald greens. These colour pairings will highlight the copper undertones in the marcasite stones, making them even more striking. The subtle metallic shimmer of this semi-precious gemstone also looks great with silver, so it is no wonder that it is often used as an accent to a piece of sterling silver jewellery. If you’re ready to embrace marcasite, browse Hong Factory’s collection of stunning marcasite necklaces to discover the styles that speak to you. Then pair your favorite with a matching pendant or earrings for an elegant and timeless look.