Proustite
A variety of Proustite Group
What is Proustite?
Proustite appears near the top of many gem collectors' "must-have" lists. It is very difficult to come across a specimen that is gallery grade. Less attractive pieces are mined and smelted for their high levels of silver. It is one of the very few transparent crystals to contain this element!
Etymology & Origins
It is closely allied to the corresponding sulfantimonide, pyrargyrite, from which it was distinguished by the chemical analyses of Joseph L. Proust (1754–1826) in 1804, after whom the mineral received its name.
Uses & Applications
Proustite is a minor ore of silver, which is an important metal used in utensils, mirrors, jewelry, and photography. This mineral is often sought out by collectors for its brilliant color and rarity but is too soft to use for jewelry.
Healing Properties
Proustite activates the Root chakra and connects it to the Earthstar chakra to help the user stay grounded. It is said to help a person identify their inner fears and provides the energy for change. It removes negative energy from the aura and protects against toxic psychic forces. It is believed to purify the physical and spiritual body to allow for inner healing.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 2.792-3.087
- Birefringence
- 0.295
- Pleochroism
- Strong
- Optical Character
- Uniaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Proustite 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.
Proustite Localities Map
See where Proustite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Associated Chakras
Key Characteristics
Characteristics of Proustite
The prismatic crystals are often terminated by the scalenohedron and the obtuse rhombohedron, thus resembling calcite (dog-tooth-spar) in habit. The color is scarlet-vermilion and the luster adamantine; crystals are transparent and very brilliant, but on exposure to light they soon become dull black and opaque. The streak is scarlet, the hardness 2.5, and the specific gravity 5.57.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Proustite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Arsenic, Silver.
- ⚠️It's advisable to handle proustite carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing proustite, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store proustite in a sealed container in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. For those involved in crystal healing, never put it in your mouth.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Scarlet, Vermilion, reddish gray
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2 - 2.5
- Density
- 5.625 g/cm³
- Streak
- Vermilion red
- Luster
- Adamantine
- Crystal System
- Trigonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Ag3AsS3
- Elements
- Ag, As, S
Also Known As
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Proustite FAQs
How do I identify Proustite?
Proustite can be identified by its hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale, Scarlet color, Adamantine luster, Trigonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Proustite?
Proustite typically appears in Scarlet, Vermilion, reddish gray. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Proustite?
Proustite has a hardness of 2 - 2.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the characteristics of proustite of Proustite?
The prismatic crystals are often terminated by the scalenohedron and the obtuse rhombohedron, thus resembling calcite (dog-tooth-spar) in habit. The color is scarlet-vermilion and the luster adamantine; crystals are transparent and very brilliant, but on exposure to light they soon become dull black and opaque. The streak is scarlet, the hardness 2.5, and the specific gravity 5.57.
