Antimony
Image: Shannon Heinle (CC0)
Mineral NameAntimony
Chemical FormulaSb
Mohs Hardness3
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Lustermetallic
Streak Colorgray to black
Cleavageperfect on {0001}
Fractureuneven to subconchoidal
Specific Gravity6.65
Colorstin-white, silvery-white, yellowish-white, iridescent
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalitySouth Australia (general region)
Mineral GroupNative Elements
Usesalloys (e.g., with lead for batteries, type metal), semiconductors, flame retardants, pigments
Associated Mineralsstibnite, kermesite, valentinite, arsenopyrite, pyrite, quartz, calcite
Rarityrare
Description
The image displays a 9 cm specimen of native antimony, exhibiting a distinct metallic, silvery-white to tin-white color, possibly with some tarnish. It typically occurs in massive, granular, or lamellar forms.
Geological Context
Native antimony forms in hydrothermal veins, often at low to moderate temperatures, and can be found in association with other antimony-bearing minerals like stibnite. It is a rare mineral, making it a minor ore source for the element antimony.
