FeSO4 – iron(II) sulfate – in its pure form is colorless, odorless, and non-volatile. As it absorbs moisture easily, it forms crystals together with varying amounts of water molecules, most commonly FeSO4 * 7H2O crystallohydrate. This substance’s blue-green color led to its age-old name of green vitriol. Previously, iron vitriol was used to make iron gall ink, lending the ink its characteristic deep purple-black color. Currently, it is used to prevent wood from rotting, and is sometimes prescribed to treat iron deficits.