What's That Rock?Stibnite
The main ore of antimony. It forms bright, metallic silvery-gray blades that look like needles or swords.
Safety
Contains antimony. Wash hands after handling, keep it away from food and children, and avoid breathing dust.
How to identify Stibnite
- Long, flat, silvery blades with lengthwise lines
- Very soft: scratched by a fingernail
- Heavy
Often confused with
- Galenacubic, heavier
- Pyrolusite
- Bismuthinite
Is Stibnite valuable?
Moderate.
Typical retail prices
Collector specimen$15–200each
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: long, sharp, lustrous blades and sprays are the collector form
- Size and condition: undamaged display pieces cost most (Japanese pieces are famous)
- Fragile: broken blades lower the price
- Contains antimony: wash hands after handling
Uses
- Antimony ore, specimens
Care
Soft and fragile blades break easily.
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