Dimorphite
A variety of Minerals
What is Dimorphite?
Dimorphite, chemical name arsenic sesquisulfide (As4S3), is a very rare orange-yellow arsenic sulfide mineral. In nature, dimorphite forms primarily by deposition in volcanic fumaroles at temperatures of 70–80 °C (158–176 °F). Dimorphite was first discovered in such a fumarole near Naples, Italy in 1849 by the mineralologist Arcangelo Scacchi (1810–1893). Since its discovery, dimorphite has been found in the Alacrán silver mine near Copiapó, Chile. It has also been reported from Cerro de Pasco, Peru, and the Lavrion District Mines in Attica, Greece.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Dimorphite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- orange-yellow
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1.5
- Rock tumbling
- Not recommended
- Density
- 3.6 g/cm³
- Streak
- yellow
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- As4S3
- Elements
- As, S
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Dimorphite FAQs
How do I identify Dimorphite?
Dimorphite can be identified by its hardness of 1.5 on the Mohs scale, orange-yellow color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Dimorphite?
Dimorphite typically appears in orange-yellow. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Dimorphite?
Dimorphite has a hardness of 1.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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