mineral

Sphalerite in Chalcedony (Crescent Carving)

Zinc Sulfide (ZnS) with Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 3.5 - 4 for sphalerite, 6.5 - 7 for chalcedony/agate matrix. Color: Dark brown to black host matrix with white, grey, and golden-yellow sphalerite/chalcedony druzy pockets. Luster: Resin-like to adamantine in sphalerite pockets, waxy to vitreous in chalcedony.…

Hardness: 3

Identified July 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal deposition where mineral-rich fluids filled cavities and vugs within volcanic basalt or matrix rock, precipitating chalcedony, quartz, and sphalerite crystals.

Uses & applications

Carved and polished into decorative shapes such as moons, spheres, and towers for crystal collecting, interior decor, and metaphysical displays.

Geological facts

Sphalerite is the primary ore of zinc metal. When combined with chalcedony or agate matrix, it creates striking contrast between the dark host rock and the sparkly, crystal-lined internal vugs.

Field identification & locations

Identified by the dark host matrix filled with pockets of small, sparkly crystals and chalcedony banding. High quality specimens featuring distinct druzy vugs carved into artistic shapes like crescents are popular in decor markets.

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