Realgar is a striking orange-to-red arsenic-bearing sulfide mineral. Its colour can make it attractive to mineral collectors, but it should not be treated like an ordinary decorative crystal or used in wellness practices.
What is Realgar?
Realgar is an arsenic sulfide mineral, commonly described by the mineral formula AsS and related arsenic-sulfur compositions. Its vivid orange-red colour is one of its most recognisable features.
Why handling safety matters
Because Realgar contains arsenic, it requires more caution than common quartz, calcite or agate specimens. Authoritative chemical safety information for arsenic sulfide / realgar-related compounds lists serious health hazards. Realgar should never be promoted as a healing stone or used in ways that can create ingestion, dust or prolonged exposure risks.
Safer handling principles
- Do not ingest Realgar or place it in drinking water.
- Do not make crystal elixirs or infused water with Realgar.
- Do not cut, grind, sand or polish Realgar at home, where dust may be generated.
- Keep specimens away from children and pets.
- Avoid food-preparation surfaces and wash hands after handling.
- Store the specimen securely and follow local guidance for hazardous mineral materials.
Is Moon Rituals currently selling Realgar?
No active Realgar products are currently offered in our store. This page is retained as mineral-safety information for readers who may encounter Realgar elsewhere.
Responsible crystal collecting
Not every attractive mineral is suitable for frequent handling, jewellery, water use or ritual use. Mineral identity and composition should come before metaphysical claims. For common display crystals such as Quartz, Amethyst, Fluorite and Obsidian, our Crystal Buying Guides focus on visible features, size, shape and practical care.
For chemical identification and hazard information, see PubChem's arsenic sulfide / realgar safety information.