Dimensions – 2.52″ x 2.13″ long/wide (6.4 x 5.4 cm’s)
Country of Origin – New Zealand
⭐ Highlights
New Zealand–made bismuth crystal specimen
Classic hopper-style stair-step crystal growth
Elongated, asymmetric formation with strong vertical emphasis
Vivid iridescent coloration with greens, golds, magentas, and blues
Pronounced layered terraces and crisp stepped geometry
Sculptural display piece with dynamic, architectural presence
Exact specimen shown – one of a kind
Specimen Details
Weight
2.40 oz (68 g)
Size
2.52 x 2.13 in (6.4 x 5.4 cm)
Made In
New Zealand
Crystal Description
This New Zealand–made bismuth crystal specimen displays classic hopper-style growth, forming layered stair-step terraces that build into a tall, visually dynamic structure. Its elongated profile and strong vertical development create a bold architectural presence, enhanced by vivid iridescent color across the surface. Read More →
The crystal features sharply defined stepped geometry, with deep recessed terraces and crisp right-angle edges throughout. The formation rises upward in an asymmetric yet balanced composition, giving the piece a sculptural, almost tower-like appearance when viewed from multiple angles.
Under light, the surface displays intense rainbow iridescence caused by a natural oxidation layer. Greens and golds dominate broader faces, while flashes of magenta, violet, and blue appear along stepped edges and recessed planes, shifting as the specimen is rotated.
The overall form combines vertical height with layered complexity, making it an engaging display piece that rewards close inspection. This listing is for the exact specimen shown—an excellent choice for collectors who appreciate elemental minerals, precise hopper geometry, and high-impact iridescent color in a refined, modern presentation.
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Bismuth Origin & Formation
Bismuth is a metallic chemical element with the symbol Bi and atomic number 83. While Bismuth does occur naturally in the Earth as native metal and within mineral compounds, it rarely forms well-defined crystals in nature due to the introduction of impurities (other minerals).
The striking, geometric “hopper” crystals most people associate with Bismuth are created through a man-assisted crystallization process. These crystals are grown by melting high-purity Bismuth metal and allowing it to cool slowly under controlled conditions.
As the molten metal cools, the crystal edges grow more rapidly than the center, producing the characteristic stepped, staircase-like structure. The vibrant rainbow colors form naturally as a thin oxide layer develops on the surface during cooling.
These crystals are not dyed or artificially colored, but they are not naturally occurring formations either. They represent a fascinating intersection of natural elemental properties and human-guided crystal growth.
Bismuth is known for several unusual physical characteristics. It is highly diamagnetic, meaning it strongly repels magnetic fields, and it has very low thermal conductivity compared to most metals.
The hopper crystal structure arises from Bismuth’s rhombohedral atomic lattice, which favors rapid edge growth under specific cooling conditions.
Bismuth is commonly associated with transformation and change. Its striking structure and vivid coloration symbolize movement, adaptation, and growth during periods of transition.
This element is often worked with to promote balance and harmony, helping align different aspects of the self and encourage emotional integration.
Bismuth is also linked with creativity and imagination. Its geometric form is thought to stimulate new ideas, problem-solving, and innovative thinking.
Many people associate Bismuth with energetic protection, believing it helps release emotional blockages and shield against negative influences. It is sometimes used in meditation practices aimed at spiritual connection and expanded awareness.
While not a naturally occurring crystal formation, Bismuth’s unique properties and visually expressive form make it a compelling tool for symbolic and reflective work focused on transformation, vitality, and self-exploration.