mineral
Sphalerite
Zinc Sulfide (ZnS)
Hardness: 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. Color: Yellowish brown, dark brown to black, sub-metallic to resinous or adamantine luster. Perfect dodecahedral cleavage in 6 directions.
- Hardness
- 3
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. Color: Yellowish brown, dark brown to black, sub-metallic to resinous or adamantine luster. Perfect dodecahedral cleavage in 6 directions.
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal ore veins, contact metamorphic zones, and sedimentary limestone deposits.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of zinc metal. High quality clear crystals (often called cleiophane or ruby jack) are faceted into gemstones for collectors due to extremely high dispersion.
Geological facts
Sphalerite has a dispersion fire three times higher than diamond, though its softness prevents it from being practical for everyday jewelry wear.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive resinous to adamantine luster, perfect 6-direction cleavage, and a reddish-brown to white streak with a sulfurous odor when powdered.
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Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
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