Anorpiment

anorpiment

dufrenoysite

orpiment

realgar

Images

Formula: As2S3
Valence: As3+2S2-3
Simple sulphide of arsenic, triclinic paramorph of monoclinic orpiment
Crystal System: Triclinic
Specific gravity: 3.33 measured, 3.321 calculated
Hardness: 1½:
Streak: Yellow
Colour: Greenish yellow
Solubility: Insoluble in concentrated hydrochloric acid
Environments

Hydrothermal environments

Localities

At the type locality, the Palomo mines, Santa Ana District, Castrovirreyna Province, Huancavelica, Peru, anorpiment occurs as a low-temperature hydrothermal mineral associated with dufrénoysite, muscovite, orpiment, pyrite and realgar. It occurs in drusy crusts of wedge-shaped, transparent, greenish yellow crystals. The streak is yellow. The lustre is resinous on crystal faces, but pearly on cleavage surfaces. The mineral is sectile with an irregular fracture and one perfect and easy cleavage (MM 75.6.2857–2867).
Anorpiment from the Palomo Mines - Image

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