| Material | Zinc Ore (commonly sphalerite, ZnS) |
| Color | Yellow-brown, dark brown, black, or greenish (depending on impurities) |
| Appearance | Opaque, metallic or dull luster |
| Density | 3.9-4.1 g/cm³ |
| Hardness | 3.5-4 on the Mohs scale |
| Cleavage | Perfect cleavage (in sphalerite) |
| Chemical Composition | Primarily zinc sulfide (ZnS), can contain iron, cadmium, or other elements |
| Crystal System | Isometric (for sphalerite) |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water, soluble in acids |
| Melting Point | Around 419°C (zinc) |
| Boiling Point | Around 907°C (zinc) |