There are many forms of bismuth, including bismuth subsalicylate, bismuth oxychloride and bismuth oxide. Bismuth is a metal that is very rarely found in its natural state, particularly in the United States. While there are countries that are bismuth exporters and have an abundance of naturally occurring bismuth, here in the United States bismuth producers obtain it as a by-product in refining lead, copper, tin, silver and gold ores.

Pure metallic bismuth is almost never used. Most bismuth is used in bismuth alloys and in pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Bismuth's special property is its ability to expand upon solidification. It is a component in the low-melting alloys that are used in electrical fuses, as well as in sprinkler systems and fire alarms. But the uses of bismuth don't end there! It is also used for the treatment of stomach ulcers, can be found in haemorrhoid creams, and has replaced toxic lead in many pigments (for everything from the coloration of glass to hair coloring dyes). Hunters use bismuth shot because it has 50% less recoil than steel, and it retains energy much better at long range. Research sources for:

1. Bismuth ingots or pellets

2. Bismuth crystals

3. Other bismuth products

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy bismuth ingots from bismuth suppliers

Bismuth ingots are usually the least costly metallic form and are useful in general applications. You can also purchase pure metallic bismuth in pellet or small needle form. Many hunter-specific sites sell tin-bismuth ingots that are ready for casting.

I recommend: If you want to cast your own bismuth shot, visit Hunter's Bismuth. If you're looking for pure metallic bismuth, you can compare prices on bismuth ingots at EC Plaza Network. Buy bismuth metal in small needle form at Emovendo.

Compare prices on bismuth crystals

Bismuth crystals are quite unique and beautiful. Some even believe they have mystical properties, including easing the ache of loneliness and isolation! They are often used in jewelry or, if large enough, as a standalone work of art.

I recommend: You can buy bismuth crystals in any price range from under five dollars to over fifty at Krystals Unlimited. Another great site for bismuth crystals is Fossilicious.com.

Purchase other bismuth products

There are a number of other bismuth products with a wide range of artistic and medical applications, such as bismuth oxide and bismuth subsalicyte. Bismuth oxide is frequently used in ceramics and paints. Bismuth compounds are also used in stomach-upset medicines, and cosmetics.

I recommend: You can request information on industrial and pharmaceutical grade bismuth compounds at the chemical division of the Alcan International Network, or purchase them directly at GFS Chemicals.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many mineral makeup lines use bismuth oxychloride to produce shine. Although its use has been approved by the FDA, there are a large number of people that are actually allergic to this form of bismuth! If you or the woman in your life end up with red and irritated skin after applying mineral makeup, bismuth oxychloride is the most likely culprit. Look for a makeup without bismuth oxychloride in it, such as Afterglow Cosmetics.