Rocks That Have Sphalerite

Sphalerite

• Sphalerite is composed of zinc and sulfur. It typically contains traces of other materials, such as iron, magnesium and manganese, which impact its properties, clarity and color. Sphalerite is unusual among minerals in that it can be found with both transparent crystals or dark, metallic crystals. It is also found in many colors, such as orange, yellow, green, brown and gray; red or metallic black crystals form when the crystal has a high iron content.

Limestone

• Limestone is a type of sedimentary rock, and is composed of calcite or CaCO3. There are many types of limestone because it can be formed in many ways. This rock is often composed of organic materials; for instance, coral reefs are essentially limestone that has been formed from the skeletons of deceased invertebrates. Limestone can also form through inorganic means.

Galena

• Galena is composed of lead and sulfur. It is a metallic gray mineral that is shiny when freshly mined, but acquires a tarnish that dulls the color. This mineral is soft, heavy and has the appearance of lead, and is also the primary ore for lead. It is often found in veins with sphalerite and the two can be easily confused.

Fluorite

• Fluorite is another crystal that commonly forms with sphalerite. Fluorite is composed of calcium and fluoride and forms clear, cube-shaped crystals. Pure fluorite is clear, and crystal impurities create many colors in fluorite. Fluorite is used in steel production, in the production of hydrofluoric acid, and in the production of opalescent glassware and enameling cookware.

Dolomite

• Dolomite is commonly formed in veins with sphalerite, and is composed of calcium, magnesium and carbonate, and sometimes contains small amounts of iron or manganese. Dolomite forms unique and distinctively-curved crystals. It is used to create magnesia for medical purposes. While dolomite crystals may be clear, white, gray, yellow or orange, the pink crystals are prized by collectors.