Arsenolite
A variety of Minerals
What is Arsenolite?
Arsenolite is an arsenic mineral, chemical formula As4O6. It is formed as an oxidation product of arsenic sulfides. Commonly found as small octahedra it is white, but impurities of realgar or orpiment may give it a pink or yellow hue. It can be associated with its dimorph claudetite (a monoclinic form of As2O3) as well as realgar (As4S4), orpiment (As2S3) and erythrite, Co3(AsO4)2·8H2O. Arsenolite belongs to the minerals which are highly toxic.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Arsenolite 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.
Arsenolite Localities Map
See where Arsenolite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Arsenolite
It was first described in 1854 for an occurrence in the St Andreasberg District, Harz Mountains, Lower Saxony, Germany. It occurs by the oxidation of arsenic-bearing sulfides in hydrothermal veins. It also occurs as a result of mine or coal seam fires.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- White, bluish; reddish to yellowish if impure with realgar or orpiment; colourless in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1.5
- Density
- 3.88 g/cm³
- Streak
- White to pale yellowish white
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- As2O3
- Elements
- As, O
Also Known As
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Arsenolite FAQs
How do I identify Arsenolite?
Arsenolite can be identified by its hardness of 1.5 on the Mohs scale, White color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Arsenolite?
Arsenolite typically appears in White, bluish; reddish to yellowish if impure with realgar or orpiment; colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Arsenolite?
Arsenolite has a hardness of 1.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the formation of arsenolite of Arsenolite?
It was first described in 1854 for an occurrence in the St Andreasberg District, Harz Mountains, Lower Saxony, Germany. It occurs by the oxidation of arsenic-bearing sulfides in hydrothermal veins. It also occurs as a result of mine or coal seam fires.
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