What's That Rock?Sphalerite
The main ore of zinc. It looks resinous brown to black and splits in many directions.
How to identify Sphalerite
- Splits into twelve-sided shapes on perfect cleavage
- Brown to black with a resinous shine
- Powdered streak is pale brown
Often confused with
- Garnet
- Black tourmaline
- Cassiterite
- Galena
Is Sphalerite valuable?
Inexpensive.
Typical retail prices
Collector specimen$10–150each
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Crystals: glossy, transparent honey, red or green crystals are the prized form
- Gem sphalerite is rare, very brittle and mostly for collectors, with high price per carat
- Specimen size and condition decide price; ordinary ore is cheap
Uses
- Zinc ore
- Collector specimens
Care
Soft and brittle.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026