Bismuth is atomic element No. 83 on the periodic table of elements.
Bismuth has many interesting properties. It has a relatively low melting point, 520 degrees Fahrenheit making it useful for alloying with other metals.
Bismuth has a very low thermal conductivity, expands as it cools and has a very high diamagnetic value. Unlike lead it is a brittle metal, it will break onto crystalline chips when hit with a hammer.
Bismuth is an organically-safe substitute for lead. Having the same density of lead but is non-toxic, used to make shot for shotgun shells, fishing lures and low melt alloys. We have several customers that buy our bismuth to grow crystals.
See Tips and Tricks on growing crystals.