\Bis"muth\, n. [Ger. bismuth, wismuth: cf. F. bismuth.]
(Chem.)
One of the elements; a metal of a reddish white color,
crystallizing in rhombohedrons. It is somewhat harder than
lead, and rather brittle; masses show broad cleavage surfaces
when broken across. It melts at 507[deg] Fahr., being easily
fused in the flame of a candle. It is found in a native
state, and as a constituent of some minerals. Specific
gravity 9.8. Atomic weight 207.5. Symbol Bi.

Note: Chemically, bismuth (with arsenic and antimony is
      intermediate between the metals and nonmetals; it is
      used in thermo-electric piles, and as an alloy with
      lead and tin in the fusible alloy or metal. Bismuth is
      the most diamagnetic substance known.

{Bismuth glance}, bismuth sulphide; bismuthinite.

{Bismuth ocher}, a native bismuth oxide; bismite.