Because it is such a dense metal, be aware that you may need to buy more weight than you think as the pieces may be smaller than you were expecting. To achieve the highest quality crystals, try and get hold of Bismuth that is of the highest purity (around the 99. 99% mark). [2] X Research source The easiest way to buy Bismuth is online.
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Tall pots with a smaller diameter work better as the crystals form downwards from the surface of the molten metal.
Be aware that some cheaper portable electric stoves don’t have enough power to melt the Bismuth. [5] X Research source If you do work inside, make sure you have a fire extinguisher nearby.
Be aware that as the Bismuth melts it may bubble and spatter so use a lid if you can.
This is extremely important to make sure that the Bismuth crystals start forming at the right time.
In order to reduce the speed at which the temperature of the Bismuth drops, some people turn the heat down gradually rather than straight off.
The reason you need to remove the top layer is so that the crystals forming on the bottom don’t link up with the top layer. If this happens, your crystals will be trapped in. Use a fork or spoon to scoop the top layer out from the rest of the Bismuth.
Getting the timing correct here can take a little bit of practice so don’t worry if you don’t get it quite right the first time. If the separate bowl is not metal then you should heat it so it doesn’t crack from heat shock.
Use a pair of pliers to pull crystals out of the pot. Alternatively, place the pot face down and bang firmly on the base of it a few times. With any luck, the whole solid piece of Bismuth will come out and you’ll be left with a large chunk with many crystals inside it.
