mineral

Native bismuth

Bismuth (Bi), commonly forming hopper crystals or aggregates

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 2–2.5 Mohs; silver-white to gray, metallic luster, very high density (about 9.8 g/cm³), brittle, with strong cleavage and a rhombohedral crystal structure. The specimen appears metallic and likely naturally crystallized or remelted into hopper-like forms.

Identified August 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Native bismuth forms in hydrothermal veins associated with tin, tungsten, lead, and silver deposits, typically at relatively low temperatures; specimens occur in rocks ranging from Paleozoic to younger ages. Rainbow colors, if present, usually result from an oxide film, while bright silver surfaces may be freshly exposed.

Uses & applications

Collected as a mineral specimen and used industrially in low-melting alloys, solders, free-machining steels, pharmaceuticals, and non-toxic shot. It is rarely used as a gemstone because it is soft and brittle.

Geological facts

Bismuth is the heaviest naturally occurring element with a stable isotope and is famous for iridescent, stair-stepped hopper crystals. It has unusually low toxicity compared with many heavy metals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by exceptional heft, metallic silver color, brittleness, and hopper/rhombohedral forms; distinguish it from galena by its lighter color and lack of cubic cleavage. Common localities include Bolivia, Germany, China, Australia, and Canada.