Zinc Ore (Sphalerite)

Origin

Zambia, Namibia, NIgeria and South Africa

Overview

Kresta Earth Resources Limited supplies high-quality Zinc Ore (Sphalerite) with Zn content ranging from 5%–45%. Our ore is sourced from established lead-zinc mineral belts, suitable for galvanization, alloying, die-casting, and the production of zinc-based chemicals and fertilizers.

Key Features

• Zn Content: 5%–45%
• Form: Lumps (20mm–120mm) and fines
• Associated Minerals: Lead (Pb), Silver (Ag), minor Copper (Cu)
• Impurities: Low cadmium and arsenic
• Moisture: Less than 2%

Applications

• Galvanization of steel for corrosion protection
• Zinc alloys (brass, die-casting metals, anti-friction alloys)
• Zinc oxide production for rubber, ceramics, paints, and chemicals
• Agricultural fertilizers (zinc sulfate, zinc phosphate)
• Batteries and electronics

Geological Context

Zinc deposits in Zambia, Namibia, NIgeria and South Africa occur in carbonate rocks, quartz veins, and sedimentary basins, often associated with lead and silver mineralization. The dominant zinc-bearing mineral is sphalerite, with willemite and smithsonite in oxidized zones. Mineralization is typically controlled by faults, fractures, and basin-hosted stratigraphy.

Deposit Types:

• Mississippi Valley-Type (MVT) deposits in limestones and dolomites
• Volcanogenic Massive Sulfide (VMS) – minor in Zambia’s Copperbelt
• Stratiform Pb-Zn deposits – Benue Trough, Nigeria

Host Rocks:

• Dolomites and limestones
• Shales and quartzites
• Volcanic-sedimentary successions