The Probert Encyclopaedia of Rocks & Minerals

SPHALERITE

Sphalerite or blende, is the main ore of zinc. Sphalerite is associated with galena, pyrite, marcasite, chalcopyrite, calcite. Sphalerite is formed mainly in hydrothermal veins and as a replacement deposit in limestones and in veins in igneous rocks. It has the formulae (Zn,Fe)S and a relative hardness of 4.
Research Sphalerite