mineral

Brimstone (Native Sulfur)

Native Sulfur (S)

Hardness: 1.5 - 2.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Bright yellow to yellowish-brown. Luster: Resinous to greasy. Crystal structure: Orthorhombic. Cleavage: Poor/Imperfect. Specific Gravity: 2.07.

Hardness: 1
Color: Bright yellow to yellowish-brown
Luster: Resinous to greasy

Identified March 19, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 1.5 - 2.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Bright yellow to yellowish-brown. Luster: Resinous to greasy. Crystal structure: Orthorhombic. Cleavage: Poor/Imperfect. Specific Gravity: 2.07.

Formation & geological history

Formed as a sublimate from volcanic gases near fumaroles, or as a secondary mineral via the bacterial reduction of sulfate minerals like gypsum. It is also found in salt domes.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in the chemical industry for the production of sulfuric acid, fertilizers, gunpowder, matches, and insecticides. Collector specimens are valued for their color.

Geological facts

Historically known as 'brimstone', it is one of the few elements found in pure form in nature. It burns with a blue flame and emits a suffocating odor of sulfur dioxide.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive 'rotten egg' smell when rubbed or heated, its bright yellow color, and its low melting point. Commonly found in Sicily, Italy; Java, Indonesia; and the Gulf Coast of the USA.