Gemdle

Bismuth

gray

Bismuth, a gray mineral
John Sobolewski (JSS) · CC BY 3.0
ColourGray
Mohs hardness2–2.5
LustreMetallic (often iridescent)
StreakSilver-white
Crystal systemTrigonal
TransparencyOpaque
CleavagePerfect
FractureUneven
Chemical formulaBi
Specific gravity9.7–9.8

What is Bismuth?

Bismuth is a chemical element; it has symbol Bi and atomic number 83. It is a post-transition metal and one of the pnictogens, with chemical properties resembling its lighter group 15 siblings arsenic and antimony. Elemental bismuth occurs naturally, and its sulfide and oxide forms are important commercial ores. The free element is 86% as dense as lead. It is a brittle metal with a silvery-white color when freshly produced. Surface oxidation generally gives samples of the metal a somewhat rosy cast. Further oxidation under heat can give bismuth a vividly iridescent appearance due to thin-film

How to identify Bismuth

Can you spot Bismuth?

Test yourself on photos of Bismuth and lookalikes:

Frequently asked questions

How hard is Bismuth?
Bismuth is Mohs 2–2.5 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Bismuth?
Bismuth is typically gray.