Crystopedia
IMA mineral species Healing crystal ✺ Glows under UV

Sphalerite

✦ Stone of Discernment ✦

Crystal lore: 🌳 Grounding🎯 Focus💬 Communication

ZnS

Zinc-iron sulfide mineral.

RedYellowGreenBlueBrownBlackWhite & Clear

Sphalerite specimen
Sphalerite - Iron Cap mine, Graham, Arizona, USA.jpg · Wikimedia Commons (see file page for author & license)

Properties

⚖ Density4.141 g/cm³
Heavy
🔷 Cubic
Chemical formulaZnS
ElementsZn, S
Crystal systemCubic
Mohs hardness—
Density4.141 g/cm³
Streak—
Color—
IMA symbolSp
Nickel–Strunz class2.CB.05a

“—” means no reliable value in Wikidata yet. Check Mindat for full data.

✺ Glows under UV

Longwave UV (~365 nm)Orange, blue, yellow or green
Midwave UV (~310 nm)Orange, blue, yellow or green
Shortwave UV (~254 nm)Orange, blue, yellow or green
Phosphorescence (afterglow)Often phosphorescent

Franklin-area sphalerite can glow in several colours.

Reactions vary by locality and specimen; many specimens of a fluorescent species do not glow. Shortwave UV can burn skin and damage eyes. Wear UV-blocking glasses, and never look into any UV lamp. Sources: Franklin Mineral Museum fluorescent mineral checklist. More UV-reactive stones →

🌍 Where it's found

  • Type locality
  • Notable source / deposit
  • Country of origin

Marker positions are approximate (region or locality level). Type localities from Wikidata; notable sources curated by Crystopedia.

Varieties & related stones

✨ Metaphysical & Folklore

These are traditional and folk beliefs from crystal lore. They are not scientific or medical claims – crystals are not a substitute for professional care.

Associated with grounding and discerning truth.

Traditional uses
grounding, discernment, vitality
Chakra
Root
Zodiac
♊Gemini
Element
🌿Earth

💞 Pairs well with (traditional pairings)

Black TourmalineA natural partner for grounding; Black Tourmaline also adds protection. HematitePaired in tradition for grounding, with Hematite bringing focus as well. JasperBoth carry the theme of grounding, so together they're thought to reinforce it. Petrified WoodA natural partner for grounding; Petrified Wood also adds patience. Clear QuartzLifts and clarifies sphalerite's grounding energy; clear quartz is said to amplify any stone.

Learn more