Orpiment For Sale

Orpiment is a bright orange to yellow arsenic sulfide mineral. Its name is derived from the Latin phrase auripigmentum, meaning “gold pigment”. It is frequently found as a decay byproduct of and associated with realgar, another arsenic mineral. Orpiment crystals are commonly found in dense groupings containing small, prismatic crystals; drusy, botryoidal crystal formations; or in rosettes.

More About Orpiment

Orpiment Crystal Cluster on Matrix - Twin Creeks Mine, Nevada #168399

2.5" Orpiment Crystal Cluster on Matrix - Twin Creeks Mine, Nevada

SOLD

1.7" Orpiment Crystal Cluster - Peru

SOLD

Orpiment Crystal Cluster with Druzy Quartz - Peru #133125

1.6" Orpiment Crystal Cluster with Druzy Quartz - Peru

SOLD

Orpiment: The Vibrant, Toxic Mineral With A Colorful History

Orpiment is a striking yellow-orange mineral known for its vivid color and intriguing composition. Scientifically classified as arsenic sulfide (As₂S₃), orpiment’s beautiful, sunny hue has made it desirable for various applications throughout history. However, this beauty comes with a warning: orpiment is highly toxic, primarily due to its arsenic content, making it a mineral that demands both respect and caution. Orpiment occurs naturally in hydrothermal deposits, volcanic fumaroles, and hot springs. It is often associated with minerals like realgar, another arsenic sulfide mineral, and stibnite, an antimony sulfide. Some of the most notable sources of orpiment include:

United States: Found in several states, including Nevada, Utah, and Washington.

Turkey: Known for producing some of the finest orpiment crystals, Turkey is a significant source.

China: Also produces high-quality specimens, particularly in mineral-rich regions.

Peru and Romania: These countries have deposits with notable orpiment specimens.

Russia: The mines of Siberia, especially around the Caucasus Mountains, are known for yielding vibrant orpiment.

In many of these places, orpiment is often found alongside realgar, another arsenic-based mineral with a bright red color, creating visually striking mineral formations.

Toxicity of Orpiment: Is it Safe to Handle?

Orpiment is highly toxic due to its arsenic content. Arsenic can be absorbed through the skin, and orpiment dust is dangerous if inhaled. For this reason, orpiment should be handled with gloves, especially when specimens are broken or powdered, as they can release fine particles into the air. Additionally, it’s crucial to wash hands thoroughly after handling orpiment to avoid accidental ingestion.

Collectors and mineral enthusiasts who display orpiment specimens in their homes should take precautions to ensure the mineral is kept in a secure, ventilated space where it cannot be accidentally touched or inhaled. Long-term exposure to arsenic, even in small amounts, can have serious health effects, so orpiment is best suited to a protective case or display cabinet.

Historical Uses of Orpiment

Despite its toxicity, orpiment has been used for thousands of years, particularly as a pigment in art and decoration. The vibrant yellow color of orpiment made it a popular, albeit dangerous, choice for artists. In ancient Egypt, orpiment was sometimes used in tomb paintings and for decorating jewelry and clothing. The Romans and Greeks also used it as a pigment.

In medieval times, alchemists experimented with orpiment in their quest to turn base metals into gold, drawn to its golden hue and mysterious properties. In Asia, particularly in China and Persia, orpiment was used as a pigment in paintings and manuscripts. However, its use declined over time as people became aware of its toxicity and as safer pigments were discovered.

Orpiment was also historically used as a pesticide and a way to repel insects, particularly in agricultural practices, due to its arsenic content. Today, with a much better understanding of arsenic’s dangers, orpiment is rarely, if ever, used outside of mineral collecting and scientific research.

Sensitivity to Sunlight

Orpiment is extremely sensitive to sunlight and exposure to light causes it to degrade and lose its color. Prolonged exposure can lead to the breakdown of its structure, causing the mineral to become powdery and dull. For this reason, it is important to store orpiment in a dark, controlled environment if it is kept in a collection. Mineral museums and collectors often take special precautions to limit orpiment’s exposure to light, sometimes using UV-protective glass for display cases.

For those who appreciate the beauty and rarity of orpiment, proper storage and handling are essential. To preserve its vibrant color and prevent arsenic exposure:

Display in Low Light: Keep orpiment out of direct sunlight or bright light. If displaying it, consider using cases with UV protection.

Handle Carefully: Always wear gloves when handling orpiment, and avoid touching your face or eating afterward.

Avoid Crushing or Breaking Specimens: This reduces the risk of creating dust, which can be harmful if inhaled.

Orpiment: The Vibrant, Toxic Mineral With A Colorful History

Toxicity of Orpiment: Is it Safe to Handle?

Historical Uses of Orpiment

Sensitivity to Sunlight