Sulfur
Image: Bruno Girin (CC BY-SA 2.0)
Mineral NameSulfur
Chemical FormulaS
Mohs Hardness1.5
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lusterresinous
Streak Coloryellow
Cleavagepoor/indistinct
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.07
Colorsyellow, orange-yellow
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityPacaya volcano, Guatemala
Mineral GroupNative Elements
Usesindustrial, chemical production, fertilizers, fungicides
Associated Mineralsvolcanic gases, pyrite, gypsum
Raritycommon
Description
A bright yellow, powdery to massive deposit coating the rocks on the crater rim, indicative of recent volcanic activity.
Geological Context
Formed by the sublimation of sulfur-rich volcanic gases (H2S, SO2) near fumaroles and volcanic vents, commonly found in active volcanic environments.
