Realgar
A variety of Minerals
What is Realgar?
Realgar is a sulfur- and arsenic-containing mineral that tends to bear a striking coloration - specimens typically range from marigold to vermillion to a deep, ruby red. A toxic mineral, realgar has been used since ancient times, often as a poison for rodents or insect pests. The mineral has also historically been used in the manufacture of fireworks.
Uses & Applications
Realgar is used for leather processing to remove hair from the hide. It has also been used to create red pigments, and as a minor source of arsenic, this mineral is used to kill weeds and pests such as insects and rodents.
Healing Properties
Realgar is believed to cleanse the subconscious mind, revealing all hidden thoughts and deeds from past lives, allowing a person to use these to build a better future. It is said to possess positive energy so that by carrying it, a person will feel revitalized and inspired to achieve their aspirations. It is also believed to open a person's heart to allow for more tolerance and understanding.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 2.538-2.704
- Birefringence
- 0.166
- Pleochroism
- Nearly colorless to pale golden yellow
- Optical Character
- Biaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Realgar 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.
Realgar Localities Map
See where Realgar is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
The Meaning
Realgar has long been known as a poison and was used by the Ancient Chinese to repel snakes. They also believed realgar could ward off evil and made it into a wine during dragon boat festivals. This toxic mineral was used for orange and yellow pigment in 13th century Byzantium art.
Associated Chakras
Key Characteristics
Formation of Realgar
Realgar most commonly occurs as a low-temperature hydrothermal vein mineral associated with other arsenic and antimony minerals. It also occurs as volcanic sublimations and in hot spring deposits. It occurs in association with orpiment, arsenolite, calcite and barite. It is found with lead, silver and gold ores in Hungary, Bohemia and Saxony. In the US it occurs notably in Mercur, Utah; Manhattan, Nevada; and in the geyser deposits of Yellowstone National Park. It is commonly held that after a long period of exposure to light realgar changes form to a yellow powder known as pararealgar (β-As4S4). It was once thought that this powder was the yellow sulfide orpiment, but has been recently shown to be a distinct chemical compound.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Realgar dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Arsenic.
- ⚠️Arsenic
- ⚠️It's advisable to handle realgar carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing realgar, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store realgar 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.
More Images
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Dark red to orange-red
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 1.5 - 2
- Density
- 3.59 g/cm³
- Streak
- Orange-red to red
- Luster
- Greasy, Resinous
- Crystal System
- Monoclinic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- As4S4
- Elements
- As, S
Also Known As
Identify Realgar Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Realgar FAQs
How do I identify Realgar?
Realgar can be identified by its hardness of 1.5 - 2 on the Mohs scale, Dark red to orange-red color, Greasy, Resinous luster, Monoclinic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Realgar?
Realgar typically appears in Dark red to orange-red. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Realgar?
Realgar has a hardness of 1.5 - 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the formation of realgar of Realgar?
Realgar most commonly occurs as a low-temperature hydrothermal vein mineral associated with other arsenic and antimony minerals. It also occurs as volcanic sublimations and in hot spring deposits. It occurs in association with orpiment, arsenolite, calcite and barite. It is found with lead, silver and gold ores in Hungary, Bohemia and Saxony. In the US it occurs notably in Mercur, Utah; Manhattan, Nevada; and in the geyser deposits of Yellowstone National Park. It is commonly held that after a long period of exposure to light realgar changes form to a yellow powder known as pararealgar (β-As4S4). It was once thought that this powder was the yellow sulfide orpiment, but has been recently shown to be a distinct chemical compound.
%252FAbenakiite-(ce)-01.jpg&size=small)
