Zirconium (elemental)
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Mineral NameZirconium (elemental)
Chemical FormulaZr
Mohs Hardness5
Crystal Systemhexagonal
Lustermetallic
Streak Colorgrayish-black
Cleavagepoor
Fractureconchoidal to uneven
Specific Gravity6.51
Colorssilvery-gray
Transparencyopaque
Type LocalityNot applicable (manufactured product)
Mineral GroupNative Element (Metal)
Usesnuclear reactors, alloys, ceramics, surgical instruments, chemical equipment
Rarityuncommon
Description
The image displays two elongated, rough-textured crystal bars of pure zirconium, alongside a smaller, smooth 1 cm³ zirconium cube, all exhibiting a bright metallic luster.
Geological Context
Zirconium is not found as a native element in nature in significant quantities; it is primarily extracted from minerals like zircon (ZrSiO4) and baddeleyite (ZrO2). The samples shown are industrially produced pure zirconium metal, typically via processes like the crystal bar process, from refined ores.
