Sulfur

Native sulfur often occurs near volcanic activity, at or around vents where hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas escapes. As the gas mixed with the atmosphere, the sulfur is removed by oxygen leaving crusts of sulfur.

Chemical Formula:

S

Mineral Class:

Element

Crystal System:

Orthorhombic

Symmetry:

2/m 2/m 2/m

Hardness:

1.5-2.5

Specific Gravity:

2.05-2.09

Cleavage:

Fracture:

Conchoidal, uneven

Color:

Yellow

Streak:

Yellow

Luster:

Resinous

Transparency:

Transparent/translucent

Common Habits:

Other Properties:

Notable Localities:

Sicily, Italy; Mexico; Hawaii; Japan; Argentina; Chile

Uses:

Manufacture of sulfuric acid (H2SO4) & hydrogen sulfide (H2S), insecticides, fertilizers, rubber vulcanization, as well as the production of soap, textiles, leather, paint, petroleum and paper

Associated Minerals:

Celestite, gypsum, calcite, aragonite, anhydrite

Specimens:


Sulfur
Sicily, Italy