Stibnite

Stibnite is a popular mineral composed of antimony sulfide. ^[1]

Stibnite: Quick Facts and Characteristics

Some quick facts for Stibnite:

• Transparency: Stibnite is opaque.
• Crystallography: In terms of crystallography, stibnite is orthorhombic.
• Luster: In terms of luster, stibnite is metallic.
• Streak: Stibnite streaks dark gray or gray.
• Hardness: Stibnite's hardness is 2 on the Moh's scale.
• Specific Gravity: Stibnite's specific gravity is 4.6.

Stibnite: Background and Summary

Stibnite is a sulfide mineral composed of antimony and sulfur, with the chemical formula Sb2S3. It is a lead-grey mineral with a metallic luster and a characteristic striated crystal habit. Stibnite has a Mohs hardness of 2, making it a relatively soft mineral. It is often found in hydrothermal veins and is associated with other minerals such as quartz, pyrite, and arsenopyrite.

Stibnite has been used for a variety of purposes throughout history. One of its primary uses is as a source of antimony, which is used in a number of industrial applications, including the production of flame retardants, batteries, and semiconductors. Stibnite was also historically used in the production of kohl, an ancient Egyptian cosmetic used as eyeliner. Additionally, stibnite has been used in the production of fireworks and as a pigment in paints.

To identify stibnite, one can look for its characteristic lead-grey color and metallic luster. Stibnite crystals are typically elongated and striated, with a distinctive bladed or needle-like shape. It can also be identified by its relatively low hardness and its association with other minerals in hydrothermal veins.