PEN-SPHALPT-01
Origin: Spain
Grade: AA
Dimensions:
Approx. 30-35mm
Weight:
Approx. 15g
Origin
Spain
Grade:
AA = very high
Drilled Sphalerite approx. 30-35mm, delivered with a 1mm waxed cotton cord.
Sold individually.
Colors and patterns may vary from one stone to another
Sphalerite derives its name from the Greek "sphaleros", meaning "treacherous". This name refers to the ease with which this dark-hued stone was confused with Galena (a mineral with a high lead content).
The Germans also call it "Zinkblende", with "blende" meaning "blind" or "deceptive".
Sphalerite can be found in yellow, reddish, greenish, or translucent shades.
Gem-quality Sphalerite is only found in the Chivera mines in Mexico or in the Spanish "Picos de Europa" massif.
Sphalerite is a crystallization of zinc sulfide (ZnS) exhibiting a slight zinc (Zn1-xS) deficiency.
Despite its amazing optical effects, Sphalerite is a little-known and very rare stone.