mineral

Bismuth Crystal

Bismuth (Bi)

Hardness: 2.25 on Mohs scale; Color: Silvery-white (natural), Iridescent rainbow (lab-grown due to oxidation); Luster: Metallic; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Rhombohedral forms hopper crystals; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific gravity: 9.78

Hardness: 2
Luster: Metallic

Identified March 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed as a byproduct of smelting ores of lead, copper, tin, and silver. Laboratory specimens are created through slow cooling of molten 99.9% pure bismuth, allowing the unique 'hopper' steps to form.

Uses & applications

Used in pharmaceuticals (Pepto-Bismol), non-toxic lead substitutes in fishing weights and ammunition, cosmetics, low-melting-point alloys, and as collector specimens.

Geological facts

Bismuth is more diamagnetic than any other metal and has a higher electrical resistance in a magnetic field than any other metal. It is notably one of the few substances that expands as it freezes, similar to water.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive 'hopper' stair-step crystal geometry and iridescent surface氧化 colors. While small amounts occur naturally in Australia, Bolivia, and China, the hopper crystals seen in this image are almost exclusively laboratory-grown.