Stibnite

Stibnite (microscopic section)

StibineRoumanie

Stibnite-Calcite-203075

Stibnite-21985

Kristallstruktur Stibnit

Antimonite Calcite Xikuangshan

Stibnite, also known by its chemical formula Sb2S3, is a sulfide mineral that is the primary source of the element antimony. Its name is derived from the Latin stibium, which is the old name for antimony. Stibnite has a lead-gray color with a metallic luster and can form orthorhombic crystals. It is known for its elongated and striated crystals, which can be quite striking and are highly sought after by mineral collectors.

Properties

Stibnite has a Mohs hardness of 2, which makes it relatively soft and easily scratched. Its specific gravity ranges from 4.6 to 4.7, making it notably dense for a non-metallic mineral. The mineral often forms in long, slender, and sometimes needle-like crystals, but it can also occur in massive or granular forms. Stibnite's metallic luster and lead-gray color are distinctive, although it can tarnish to a black or iridescent hue.

Formation and Occurrence

Stibnite is typically found in hydrothermal veins, where it precipitates from ascending hot waters and gases as they cool. It is often associated with other minerals such as quartz, realgar, cinnabar, and barite. Stibnite can also occur in low-temperature hot spring deposits and in association with gold ores. Major stibnite deposits have been found in China, which is the world's largest producer of antimony, as well as in Japan, Peru, and parts of the United States, particularly in Idaho and Nevada.

Uses

Historically, stibnite was used in ancient times as a source of antimony, which was used for cosmetics, such as eyeliner, and for medicinal purposes. Today, the primary use of antimony, extracted from stibnite, is in the manufacture of flame retardant materials. Antimony compounds are added to plastics, textiles, and rubbers to improve their resistance to fire. Additionally, antimony is used in the production of batteries, low-friction metals, and in some semiconductor technologies.

Environmental and Health Concerns

The mining and processing of stibnite and antimony ores can release toxic compounds into the environment, posing risks to water quality, air quality, and soil health. Workers exposed to antimony compounds in industrial settings may experience health effects, including skin irritation, respiratory problems, and other more serious conditions with long-term exposure. As such, the handling of stibnite and antimony requires careful management to mitigate environmental and health risks.

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