Bismuth Rainbow Crystal Staircase - 1.752" herkimer complex lattices

complex lattices

The concretion halves can be opened to reveal the septarian pattern within

amber has been mined from seams of lignite interbedded with clay and shale

fragments can vary in shape

We use these very same cases for packaging numerous specimens in the Mini Museum collection

Bismuth Rainbow Crystal Staircase - 1.752" herkimer complex latticesBismuth is an element (Bi 83) best known for its unusual staircase shape, the result of bismuth atoms attaching to the edge of a rapidly growing crystal. This is called hoppering, when atoms are drawn to the edge of a structure, creating a lattice formation. This specimen is a Bismuth Rainbow Crystal, measuring 1. 752". While bismuth's practical uses are limited beyond some pharmaceuticals, the element's utterly unique colors and shape continue to