Bismite
A variety of Minerals
What is Bismite?
Bismite is a bismuth oxide mineral, bismuth trioxide or Bi2O3. It is a monoclinic mineral, but the typical form of occurrence is massive and clay-like with no macroscopic crystals. The color varies from green to yellow. It has a Mohs hardness of 4 to 5 and a specific gravity of 8.5 to 9.5, quite high for a nonmetallic mineral. Bismite is a secondary oxidation zone mineral which forms from primary bismuth minerals. It was first described from Goldfield, Nevada in 1868, and later from the Schneeberg District, Ore Mountains, Saxony, Germany.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Bismite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Greyish green, greenish yellow to bright yellow
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5
- Rock tumbling
- Not recommended
- Density
- 10.4 g/cm³
- Streak
- Grey to yellow
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- Bi2O3
- Elements
- Bi, O
Also Known As
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Bismite FAQs
How do I identify Bismite?
Bismite can be identified by its hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale, Greyish green color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Bismite?
Bismite typically appears in Greyish green, greenish yellow to bright yellow. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Bismite?
Bismite has a hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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