Dimorphite

Formula:  As4S3

Origin of name:   From Greek for two forms, for the two forms in which this mineral was thought to occur

 

Crystal system:   Orthorhombic

Crystal class:   2/m 2/m 2/m

Twinning:

Unit cell: a =11.24 Å, b = 9.90 Å, c = 6.56 Å

 

Colour:   Orange-yellow

Diaphaneity:  Transparent

Luster:   Adamantine

Habit:   Crystals dipyramidal, usually minute, groups of parallel crystals

Hardness:   1.5

Specific gravity:  3.58

Cleavage:   None

Tenacity: Brittle

Streak: 

 

Synonyms/varieties:

 

Comments: Burns without residue. Formed as deposits at fumarolic vents at temperatures of about 70-80°C, also formed in a ore deposit under secondary conditions

 

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