Bi- Bismuth
Many of the minerals and metals that I've photographed have been gems from the earth and metals that have been directly harvested, but which hold their initial form and shape. Bismuth might be an exception because although it is found in the earth, the unique structure and spectrum of color comes from lab-created formations.
The rhombohedral lattice of the bismuth atoms form into fascinating shapes that I've never seen before. The shelving and straight-edges resemble staircases or the branching of coral, an aesthetic that both looks organic and alien.
Because bismuth has quite a low melting point of 271 C, it is a metal that could be reformed easily, and when done reveals some stunning spans of coloration.
Bismuth 3, 2019. Digital photograph.
The atomic structure of the bismuth metal not only determines its form, it also exhibits an iridescent rainbow varnish that can span the whole spectrum of colors in visible light.
Bismuth is used for several things in society, and you can often tell when its added to metal alloys or as a varnish because some metal products has a similar reflective rainbow surface.
Because of it's iridescent shine, it is also added as a pigment to some makeup and cosmetics. It is not a heavy metal and doesn't cause bodily harm, also ingested to help medicinally like in bismuth subsalicylate.
These macro photographs are a study in the spectrum of light in bismuth. With an interest in its forms and edges, these images are intimate presentation of the mineral that is vibrant and intricate.
Bismuth 4, 2019. Digital photograph.
Bismuth Macro Series, 2019. Digital photograph.