What is "Fool's Gold"?
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USGS Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is "Fool's Gold"?

Answer:

Fool's Gold can be one of three minerals; the most common mineral mistaken for gold is pyrite, chalcopyrite may also appear gold-like, and weathered biotite mica can mimic flake gold.

Source of this FAQ:
http://minerals.usgs.gov/west/factfaq.shtml

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