Information about Stibnite

Appearance

A metallic, lead-grey coloured crystalline mineral with radiating, striated crystals. Very brittle but can form unusually complex, almost alien formations.

Uses and History

Stibnite is the most important ore for the metalloid element Antimony (Sb). Its name is derived from the Latin ‘stibium’.

Antimony trisulfide is used in pyrotechnics and in modern safety matches. It was historically used for photographers ‘flash powder’ but was too toxic for this use.

Stibnite has been found in makeup and cosmetics dating back to around 3000 BC; it is called ‘kohl’ when used in this purpose.

It appears to have been used in medicines as well, mentioned as an eye cleanser in the Sunan Abi Dawood.

Locales

Stibnite occurs all over the world, and crystalline specimens can be found in many countries.

However, there are a number of locales producing excellent specimens, and I’ve seen many nice pieces from Romania, Slovakia, and China.

Mineralogy

Hazards and Warnings

Antimony can be toxic, especially when airborne. Wash hands after handling.

Mineral collectors should wash their hands after handling specimens, to avoid any exposure to potential toxins.

Almost all rocks, minerals (and, frankly, almost all other substances on earth) can produce toxic dust when cutting, which can cause serious respiratory conditions including silicosis.

When cutting or polishing rocks, minerals, shells, etc, all work should be done wet to minimise the dust, and a suitable respirator or extraction system should be used.

Translations

Further Reading / External Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stibnite
• https://gem-a.com/understanding-stibnite-antimony-minerals/
• https://www.mindat.org/min-3782.html