Sphalerite
A zinc sulfide mineral with dispersion more than three times that of diamond, but is too soft for most jewelry.
Physical & Optical Properties
RI Range2.369–2.500
SG Range3.90–4.10
SG Typical4.09
Hardness (Mohs)3.5–4
Crystal SystemCubic
Optic CharacterSR (Singly Refractive)
Dispersion0.156
Fluorescence LWVariable
Fluorescence SWVariable
Chelsea FilterInert
PleochroismNone
ColorsYellow Orange, Brown, Red Pink, Green, Black
SpeciesSphalerite
Key Differentiators
- Extraordinarily high dispersion
- Low hardness
- Perfect dodecahedral cleavage
Price Context
Natural — low ($/ct)$30
Natural — high ($/ct)$300
NotePer carat; rare collector gem; extreme dispersion exceeds diamond; very soft and fragile
Price context is approximate. GemID is not an appraisal tool. Results are indicators, not certified valuations.
About Sphalerite
A zinc sulfide mineral with dispersion more than three times that of diamond, but is too soft for most jewelry.
Identifying a sphalerite? GemID walks through these tests in order — RI, SG, fluorescence, and more.
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