What is Sphalerite?

Sphalerite is a part of the Sulfide mineral family. It’s usually found in metamorphic, igneous and sedimentary rocks. For this mineral to form there needs to be hydrothermal activity or contact metamorphism to bring zinc concentrated fluids to carbonate rocks. This way while the mass is cooling down the process of crystallization begins and the crystal starts growing. There also need to be other components such as iron and trace amounts of indium, cadmium, germanium and others. 

It ranges from 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale of hardness which makes it sensitive to scratches from other materials. This crystal also has the typical uneven to conchoidal fracture type when the mineral cracks.

Sphalerite’s name comes from the Greek word “sphaleros” which means deceiving. The reason for this association is because the crystal was challenging to identify and constantly got mixed up with Galena.

Sphalerite is spread out across the globe and can be found in countries like Mexico, Canada, Peru, China, India, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Bolivia. It’s also widely produced in many United States mines located in Alaska, Missouri, Tennessee and others.

Sphalerite Healing Properties

Sphalerite works with the Root, Sacral and Solar Plexus Chakra. This will bring about some grounding, creativity, drive, courage and confidence into your life. You will instantly be pushed to take action and fulfill your potential! It will also help you a lot in reflecting and learning the important lessons. Additionally, Sphalerite is a very protective stone that will dispel all the unwanted energies around you. It can even work to diminish the negativity within you by balancing your mind.

Sphalerite is a great addition to your home as a captivating décor item. It will bring you numerous benefits depending on where you place it according to the Feng Shui Bagua map. Some good options for placements are in the workspace combined with Carnelian for enhancing your creativity and courage or near the front door for blocking negativity. You can even sit in meditation with it or place it on your lower three chakras in order to balance them out. This is also the perfect match for all the Geminis out there!