mineral
Bismuth Crystal
Bismuth (Bi)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Iridescent multicolor (caused by oxidation) over a silver-white base. Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Trigonal (often forming hopper crystals). Cleavage: Perfect on {0001}. Specific gravity: 9.78.
- Hardness
- 2
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Iridescent multicolor (caused by oxidation) over a silver-white base. Luster: Metallic. Crystal structure: Trigonal (often forming hopper crystals). Cleavage: Perfect on {0001}. Specific gravity: 9.78.
Formation & geological history
Laboratory-grown through a slow cooling process of molten high-purity bismuth metal. Natural bismuth occurs in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, but rarely in this iridescent hopper form.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a collector's specimen and in jewelry. Industrially, bismuth is used in cosmetics (bismuth oxychloride), pharmaceuticals (Pepto-Bismol), and low-melting alloys/solders.
Geological facts
The iridescent colors are caused by a thin layer of bismuth oxide on the surface; light reflects off the top and bottom of this layer to create constructive interference. Despite being a heavy metal, it is non-toxic and is the most naturally diamagnetic element.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its unique 'hoppered' staircase crystal structure and vibrant rainbow iridescence. In nature, bismuth is typically massive or granular and lacks these bright colors.
