mineral
Iridescent bismuth crystal
Bismuth (Bi), artificially crystallized
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMetallic, multicolored tarnish over a stepped, hopper-like crystal; Mohs hardness about 2–2.5, orthorhombic crystal structure, and high specific gravity (~9.8). The colors are thin oxide films, not the crystal’s natural color.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Iridescent bismuth crystal in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Metallic, multicolored tarnish over a stepped, hopper-like crystal; Mohs hardness about 2–2.5, orthorhombic crystal structure, and high specific gravity (~9.8). The colors are thin oxide films, not the crystal’s natural color.
Formation & geological history
Most likely formed by melting and cooling refined bismuth; its geometric hopper shape and vivid oxide coating are characteristic of laboratory-grown specimens rather than natural geological formation.
Uses & applications
Collected as a decorative mineral specimen and used in demonstrations of crystal growth; bismuth alloys also have industrial and pharmaceutical applications.
Geological facts
Bismuth expands slightly as it solidifies. Natural bismuth occurs in hydrothermal veins, but striking rainbow hopper crystals are commonly produced intentionally.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its heavy feel, brittle metallic body, stepped geometric surfaces, and rainbow oxide layer. Natural bismuth is found in places including Bolivia, Germany, and Australia; this specimen appears human-grown.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary